HERNANDO COUNTY, Fla. — With the next named storm expected to form this week, Tampa Bay-area counties have begun issuing local states of emergency to prepare for potential tropical weather.
Hernando County declared a local state of emergency on Monday afternoon as county leaders continue to monitor Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine.
This declaration gives the county authority to take action to ensure the health and safety of the community as the storm approaches. This includes making emergency purchases, renting equipment, hiring workers and putting resources in place.
Hernando County's state of emergency will be in effect for seven days, or until it is rescinded.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis also issued a state of emergency on Monday for most of Florida's 67 counties.
Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas and Sarasota counties are all listed under the governor's order.
Issuing a state of emergency allows the state to execute its emergency management plan and carry out any necessary logistical, rescue or evacuation operations.
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Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine is expected to strengthen over the next few days. If it reaches 39 mph, it'll become a tropical storm and get the name Helene.
Tropical storm warnings and hurricane watches have been issued for parts of Mexico and Cuba. By Wednesday, it's expected to become a hurricane.
While there is still some uncertainty, models are in better agreement that the system will strengthen while moving northward over the Gulf of Mexico. Although it is too soon to specify the exact location and magnitude, areas along the Florida Gulf Coast should prepare for potential impacts from storm surge, heavy rainfall and strong winds.
10 Tampa Bay meteorologist Amanda Pappas contributed to this report.
