While a mandatory evacuation order is in effect for residents in Zone A ahead of Hurricane Helene’s arrival Thursday, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office does not plan to move inmates from the overcrowded jail that sits within a flood-prone area.

Pinellas County officials are urging residents in Evacuation Zone A and mobile homes to evacuate immediately. The deadline for safe evacuation is noon today, after which rising floodwaters will make roads impassable,

Pinellas County officials issued a mandatory evacuation order Tuesday for residents in evacuation Zone A who live in health care facilities, such as hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living centers.