ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Tampa Bay is preparing for what is expected to become Hurricane Helene this week, with potential effects felt along Florida's entire Gulf Coast.
With the forecast in mind, 10 Tampa Bay has issued a Weather Impact Alert to help you stay informed, prepared and connected before, during and after the storm. Here is the when, the impacts and the need for Tampa Bay:
WHEN
When will Hurricane Helene form?
Potential Tropical Cyclone 9 is expected to "strengthen significantly" on Tuesday. It will first become Tropical Storm Helene, then is forecasted for develop into Hurricane Helene on Wednesday.
When will Tampa Bay start to feel impacts?
The storm's first rain bands will arrive in Tampa Bay late Wednesday. Severe weather is possible.
When will Tampa Bay experience the storm's worst impacts?
Tampa Bay should be prepared for Thursday. That's when the system will be parallel to Tampa Bay. As it passes, it can bring us storm surge. Thursday will be the day with the most severe impacts from the storm with bands of rain and wind as the surge begins later in the day.
When will weather conditions return to normal?
Although the system starts to leave our area early Friday, flooding and surge will still be a concern. Expect conditions to return to normal in Tampa Bay on Saturday.
IMPACT
What should Tampa Bay be prepared for?
Tampa Bay should plan for storm surge, heavy rain and high wind speeds. There is also a possibility for isolated tornadoes.
Storm surge watches, hurricane watches and tropical storm watches have been issued for parts of Florida.
NEED
What do I need to do now?
The time to prepare for what's expected to become Hurricane Helene is now. Make sure you have your hurricane kit ready, you know your evacuation zone and your flood zone. There are sandbag locations across the Tampa Bay area to help protect your home and property.
Lastly, have a way to get weather alerts. The 10 Tampa Bay mobile app will keep you prepared, informed and connected throughout the storm. You can stream 10 Tampa Bay on 10 Tampa Bay+ on your favorite streaming service as well. You can track the storm live here.
A battery-powered weather radio is also a helpful tool to stay updated.
We will continue to provide the latest information through your 10 Tampa Bay hurricane headquarters.
