submitted by Jill PalmerSarasota County officials issued a mandatory evacuation today for low-lying areas and mobile home residents.The mandatory evacuation applies to those living in mobile homes and anyone in the County’s evacuation Zone A, including areas near the coast, rivers including Myakka, streams and low-lying areas.For evacuating residents, the following shelters are opened now:Booker High – 3201 N Orange Ave, Sarasota;
Woodland Middle (pet-friendly) – 2700 Panacea Blvd, North Port;
Atwater Elementary – 4701 Huntsville Ave, North Port;
Brookside Middle (pet-friendly) – 3636 S Shade Ave, Sarasota.In addition, two shelters will open for those residents with special needs who have registered with the county.More shelter openings will be announced as needed. Residents can find more information and determine which evacuation level they live by selecting “Know Your Evacuation Zone” at www.scgov.net.