TAMPA, Fla. — As Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine is expected to strengthen into a hurricane, it's important for Tampa Bay residents to make sure their hurricane kits are ready to go.
PTC 9 is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm Tuesday and by Wednesday become a hurricane, so it's a good time to run to the store and stock up on necessities.
The Florida Department of Emergency Management suggests that each household have enough "essential supplies" to last every family member — and yes, that means pets, too — for at least one week.
Here are some things you should have in your kit according to emergency management experts:
- One gallon of water per person, per day
- Non-perishable, easy-to-prepare food
- Cereal, granola bars, crackers, canned foods
- Flashlights
- Batteries
- Chargers
- Portable chargers that are pre-charged
- First aid kit
- Medications
- A multi-purpose tool like a Swiss Army knife
- Copies of personal documents
- Passports, birth certificates, insurance policies
- Extra cash
- Extra fuel for car or generator
Here are some additional supplies that can be helpful:
- Towels
- Scissors
- Duct tape
- Garbage bags or plastic bags
- Soap, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes
- Pet food/necessities
- Sleeping bags
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for kids
- Local maps
- Coolers
Forecasters say late Wednesday is when the first rain bands arrive and severe weather is possible. On Thursday, the system will be parallel to Tampa Bay bringing us a surge with this day being the most severe. Storm surge, hurricane and tropical storm watches have been issued for parts of the area. You can get the latest information on the storm here.
We will continue to provide the latest information through your 10 Tampa Bay hurricane headquarters.