Hurricane Michael Evacuations: Pensacola Hotels at Capacity
As Hurricane Michael approached the Gulf Coast, the Hampton Inn at Pensacola International Airport became a refuge for many seeking safety from the impending storm. By mid-morning on Wednesday, the hotel was largely filled with guests fleeing from the hurricane’s path, highlighting the urgent need for accommodations in the area.
The Strain on Local Hospitality
Kelly Jackson, a desk clerk at the Hampton Inn, was inundated with requests from evacuees desperately searching for a place to stay. "Through our system, we can check all of the other hotels in the area, and it doesn’t look like there is much else available in Pensacola right now," she explained, reflecting the overwhelming demand for lodging. The situation was echoed by several nearby Holiday Inns and Marriotts, which reported being fully booked before noon.
The surge in occupancy was not limited to the Hampton Inn. Nicole Stacey, a spokeswoman for Visit Pensacola, noted that 86 percent of hotel rooms in the Pensacola area were filled by Tuesday night. This statistic underscores the significant influx of evacuees seeking shelter from the storm.
Anticipating Increased Demand
Rusty Branch, a spokesman for the Destination Marketing Organization representing local hotel and condominium owners, indicated that the occupancy rates were expected to rise even further on Wednesday night. "Anecdotally, that is what I am hearing. I know it isn’t easy to find a room in Pensacola right now," he stated, emphasizing the challenges faced by those trying to escape the hurricane’s wrath.
Regional Impact and Alternatives
The impact of Hurricane Michael extended beyond Pensacola, affecting nearby cities as well. In Mobile, Alabama, hotel occupancy rates soared as evacuees sought refuge from the storm. Emily Gonzalez, vice president of Visit Mobile, reported, "We are seeing very, very high occupancy." She encouraged those fleeing the hurricane to visit the organization’s website for a list of available hotel rooms, highlighting the regional strain on accommodations.
Further west, in Biloxi, Mississippi, the visitor’s center reported a steady stream of Floridians making their way to safety. Yvette Mulcahy, a representative at the center, noted, "They have really just been pouring in here." Fortunately, she mentioned that there had not yet been any issues with finding rooms, providing a glimmer of hope for those in need of shelter.
Community Support and Resources
As the storm approached, local organizations rallied to support evacuees. Mulcahy encouraged those seeking refuge to check with the visitor’s center for discount books and other helpful information. "Our hearts really go out to everyone over there," she said, emphasizing the community’s solidarity during this challenging time.
Conclusion
The response to Hurricane Michael has highlighted the resilience of communities along the Gulf Coast as they come together to support those in need. With hotels at capacity and a regional influx of evacuees, the situation remains fluid. As the storm’s path continues to unfold, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected. For the latest updates and shelter information, residents and evacuees are encouraged to stay informed through local news sources and official channels.