HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — Much of the Tampa Bay area was impacted by Hurricane Helene just over a week ago. Now, another storm brewing in the Gulf of Mexico has the potential to batter the recovering region.
Because Hurricane Milton is currently forecasted to impact the west coast of Florida by midweek, many local, county and state leaders are working to keep people safe. Such measures include issuing states of emergency, which can help expedite receiving aid from state and federal after a storm.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has declared a State of Emergency for 51 counties in Florida as forecasts show Hurricane Milton tracking toward the Sunshine State's west coast. This includes all of the Tampa Bay area.
Below is a list of Tampa Bay counties and cities that have issued a state of emergency ahead of Milton. This list will be updated as new information is received; check back for updates.
Citrus County
No state of local emergency has been issued at this time.
Hardee County
No state of local emergency has been issued at this time.
Hernando County
Hernando County has declared a local state of emergency. This declaration allows the county to make emergency purchases, obtain additional resources, rent equipment, hire workers and utilize volunteers.
Highlands County
No state of local emergency has been issued at this time.
Hillsborough County
On Monday, Hillsborough County Administrator Bonnie Wise signed an executive order extending a local state of emergency through Oct. 14.
It should be noted the county has already been under a state of local emergency since Sept. 23 due to Hurricane Helene.
Manatee County
City of Bradenton
The city of Bradenton has declared a local state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Milton.
Residents are encouraged to sign up for CodeRED, the city’s emergency notification system. Enrollment can be completed online at www.cityofbradenton.com/codered, or by texting “MyBradentonFL” to 99411 from your smartphone.
Pasco County
Pasco County has declared a local state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Milton.
This allows the county administrator and emergency management director to waive everyday procedures and do what they believe is necessary to ensure the health, safety and welfare of our community.
Pinellas County
No state of local emergency has been issued at this time.
Polk County
No state of local emergency has been issued at this time.
Sarasota County
No state of local emergency has been issued at this time.