Latest News in Tampa Bay, FL

Your trusted source for local Tampa Bay, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.

Orlando police investigate officers’ use of force on pro-Palestine protesters

The Orlando Police Department is investigating the use of force by its officers during a pro-Palestine protest at Lake Eola Park, which resulted in eight arrests. Body-worn camera footage reveals a physical confrontation between an officer and a demonstrator, raising concerns about police conduct during peaceful assemblies.

LIVE CHAT: Tropical storm expected to form in the Gulf soon

A tropical storm named Helene is projected to form in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to strengthen into a hurricane, making landfall on the Gulf Coast by Thursday evening. Residents of Tampa Bay can expect rain and wind impacts starting Wednesday, with potentially dangerous storm surge conditions. Meteorologist Kyle Hanson will host a live chat on Tuesday to answer questions about the storm's impact.

Pinellas commissioners to decide on local state of emergency ahead of Potential Tropical Cyclone 9

Pinellas County commissioners are convening an emergency meeting to consider declaring a State of Local Emergency in response to Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine. Preparations are underway across the county to mitigate potential impacts from the storm.

Ruskin residents impacted by Debby concerned over flooding from tropical system

Residents in Ruskin, Florida, are increasingly worried about potential flooding as they recover from the impacts of Hurricane Debby and recent heavy rainfall. The community, familiar with past hurricanes, is taking precautions for the upcoming storm system.

Track Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine in Florida

Florida's Gulf Coast is bracing for a significant hurricane threat as forecasters predict the development of a powerful storm in the Caribbean. With winds expected to extend across the peninsula and potential storm surge reaching up to 8 feet, residents are urged to prepare for possible impacts, even if the storm's track remains west of Tampa Bay.

‘Impossible fight’: A Tampa neighborhood’s grassroots effort to save its wetlands

A grassroots movement in a Tampa neighborhood is rallying against a developer's plans to pave over wetlands for new townhomes along the Hillsborough River. Residents, led by neighborhood association president Hank Cramer, are facing significant challenges as they strive to protect their local environment. Despite their efforts, recent county approvals have raised concerns about the future of these vital wetlands.

Leader against Pinellas transit tax will sit on bus agency board

Barbara Haselden, a known critic of public transit initiatives in Pinellas County, is set to join the board of the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority. Her appointment raises concerns among transit advocates, given her previous opposition to transit tax measures and bus service expansions.

Sarasota, Manatee communities still recovering from flooding now prepare for new potential storm

Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency as Sarasota and Manatee counties prepare for the potential impact of Tropical Cyclone Nine. This storm follows the recent flooding caused by Tropical Storm Debby, leaving residents still in recovery.

As curriculum demands increase, Florida schools seek ways to fit it all in

Florida schools are adapting to increasing curriculum demands by integrating social studies and reading through a newly implemented humanities block. This approach aims to alleviate the pressure on teachers and students, as they often struggle to cover essential topics due to stringent reading requirements.

Hurricane Watch Issued for Florida Gulf Coast as Major Hurricane Expected

A Hurricane Watch has been issued for the Florida Gulf Coast as a tropical system is expected to intensify into a major hurricane by Thursday. Meteorologist Kyle Hanson will host a live chat on Tuesday to answer questions regarding the weather impacts in the local area. Residents are encouraged to prepare for the storm, and sandbag locations are open throughout Tampa Bay.

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