Idalia's Devastation: Ignored Evacuation Orders and Rebuilding Efforts

The Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa in Florida ignored an evacuation order issued by Pinellas County ahead of Hurricane Idalia and provided false information to guests, stating that there was no evacuation order in place. The hotel sent emails and slid notices under guests' doors, misinforming them about the situation. The Hyatt declined to explain their actions and deferred questions to local authorities. Clearwater Fire and Rescue's division chief of emergency management criticized the hotel's negligence, stating that they put people's lives in danger. The hotel was also found to have violated a longstanding rule that requires hotels built with additional density to evacuate guests when the National Weather Service issues a hurricane watch.