TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Governor Ron DeSantis issued a state of emergency on Monday for most of Florida's 67 counties ahead of potential impacts from what's forecasted to become Hurricane Helene.
Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas and Sarasota counties are all listed under the governor's state of emergency.
The National Hurricane Center is currently monitoring Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine, which formed in the Caribbean Sea and is expected to become the season's next named storm. The NHC issued a cone Monday showing where forecast models expect the system to move. PTC 9 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.
RELATED: Potential Tropical Cyclone 9 forms in the Caribbean, expected to become next tropical system
Issuing a state of emergency allows the state to execute its emergency management plan and carry out any necessary logistical, rescue or evacuation operations.
"Now is the time to make an emergency plan, know your evacuation zone, and be as prepared as possible for the storm," DeSantis wrote in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Learn more about the governor's order by clicking here.
Although it is too soon to specify the exact location and magnitude of this system, areas along the Florida Gulf Coast should prepare for potential impacts from storm surge, heavy rainfall and strong winds.
Now is the time to make sure your hurricane kit is ready and up to date.
We will continue to provide the latest information through your 10 Tampa Bay hurricane headquarters.
