Widespread flooding caused by rain from Tropical Storm Debby has prompted officials to activate the Pasco County Emergency Management Operations Center and to open a shelter for residents.

According to a media release, the Mike Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter at 11611 Denton Ave. in Hudson is now open for residents who have been affected by the flooding.

“Citizens are urged to stay in their homes, unless they are experiencing flooding,” the release said.

The county also has sandbags available for residents who need them. They can be picked up near the Pasco Government Center at the intersection of State and Government roads in the New Port Richey area.

An official at the emergency operations center said the county doesn’t anticipate opening shelters in central Pasco, but it will have sandbags available for residents in the Land O’ Lakes area soon. We'll provide an update as soon as the county releases a complete list of locations where sandbags can be picked up.

Stay with Patch for updates about the storm and the county’s response as they become available.