CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla. (WFLA) — Pinellas County barrier islands are back open to the public for the first time since Hurricane Helene hit. However, Clearwater officials are sending a distinct message to visitors who are considering a trip to the beach.

Officials caution against people coming out to the barrier islands to hang out or gawk at the storm damage. They say residents and workers need their space as cleanup and damage assessment continues.

The Barrier Islands in Pinellas County will reopen on Tuesday at 4 p.m., but residents, business owners, and county officials encourage people not to go out there unless they need to or are volunteering to help clean up.