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I have a vacation planned. What do I do?
The Emergency Management Team closely monitors all storms. Call 1-800-SOPADRE for updates.
What is a vehicle identification sticker?
If you live and/or own property on South Padre Island, you will need a vehicle identification sticker to be able to return to the Island in the event the Island is evacuated as a result of an emergency. A vehicle identification sticker doesn not guarantee re-entry unil emergency officials determine conditions are safe for return. If a storm is within 48 hours of landfall, stickers will no longer be issued. For more information, go to the Vehicle Identification link at the left-hand column.
When does the bridge close?
The determination of bridge closure is made by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Closure is done whenever they determine a condition on the causeway is unsafe for traffic. Generally speaking, winds of tropical storm nature (55 mph or higher) are typical levels to prompt closure.
What category storm determines evacuation?
Generally speaking any storm Category 2 or above will prompt evacuation.
How many hours before landfall is evacuation ordered?
Mandatory evacuation is called at least 24 hours prior to landfall of a pending storm event.
Is Island evacuation ordered before general coastal evacuation?
Not necessarily, various factors are considered before mandatory evacuation is called for by the Mayor. It is important to stay tuned for instructions anytime a storm is anticipated to make landfall on or near the Island.
When and what utilities are turned off?
Following mandatory evacuation, all utilities including water, sewer and electric are turned off.
Who declares an evacuation?
South Padre Island Mayor Robert Pinkerton Jr.; information will also be available through the media and on this Web site. The Emergency Management Team works closely with local, county, state and national officials before a decision is made.
Where do I go if there is an evacuation?
The official shelter site for Island residents is Zapata, Texas, however residents should consider what is best for them. Many residents may choose to shelter elsewhere in the lower Rio Grande Valley. For example, the official shelter site for Town personnel, who will be needed to restore operations to the Island, is McAllen, Texas. Again this is a personal decision. Please be advised that no one or public entity will force anything upon you. Even under a mandatory evacuation you still have a choice to stay, but we advise against this.
When can residents return?
Residents may return following determination by Town and public safety officials that it is safe to do so. Announcements will be made post storm event with advisory on this subject.
Call 1-800-OKPADRE for updates.
Where do I get sandbags, and how many am I allowed?
Each residence is allowed eight empty sandbags and each commercial property is allowed 10 empty sandbags. They are available at no cost at SPI Public Works.
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