Evacuations recommended in parts of Marion County

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Marion County leaders are now advising residents in the eastern part of the county who live in mobile homes or other non-site-built homes to evacuate.

The decision was announced Thursday afternoon after new and stronger wind advisories were issued, officials said.

Shelter opens at 6 p.m. Thursday: Belleview Middle School, 10500 SE 36th Avenue, Belleview, Florida 34420

Marion County Emergency Management will open a shelter at noon Thursday in the Marion County Sheriff's Office Multi-Purpose Room at 692 NW 30th Ave. in Ocala. The shelter will stay open until the end of the storm concludes.

MCSO Emergency Management will be providing transportation for any special needs individuals. Call the Citizen Information Line at 352-369-7500 to arrange this transportation. For special needs individuals, please bring any special needs supplies, equipment, medications or food that you need.

No pets will be accepted at the Belleview Middle School shelter. If you are a special needs individual with a pet, Marion County Code Enforcement will provide transportation for your pet to Marion County Animal Services to shelter them during the storm.

Vanguard High School, 7 NW 28th Street Ocala, Florida 34475: The shelter opens at 6 p.m. Thursday and is for the general population and pet friendly. Please bring pet's food, proof of updated vaccination information and bring any supplies needed for the pet. Pets also must be kept in cages.

The Southeastern Livestock Pavilion will be open to shelter livestock during the storm. All livestock will be accepted during regular business hours. The owner must provide food, water buckets and care for their livestock. The cost of the shelter is $10 a day for a concrete stall. No cash will be accepted and a valid driver's license is required. A total of 188 stalls are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion at 352-671-8600 for more information.

Cox Media Group