85º | 90% chance of precipitation | Sunrise 7:20 a.m. | Sunset 7:21 p.m. | Tides | Old Tampa Bay | High: 9:39 a.m. | Low: 6:36 p.m. | Clearwater Beach | High: 6:39 a.m. + 2:59 p.m. | Low: 2:59 p.m. | Full Weather Report | Traffic Report
Need-to-know Helene info
Hurricane Helene updates and post-storm resources
Though we may not be in the eye, we could see life threatening storm surge. | Graphic via National Weather Service
Thankfully, Hurricane Helene won’t make a direct hit in Tampa Bay. But, the National Hurricane Center still predicts the powerful storm will bring our slice of the Gulf Coast 5-8 ft of storm surge, tropical storm force winds, and heavy rainfall.
Forecasters expect Tampa Bay will see the majority of Hurricane Helene’s impact today, as the storm prepares to make landfall further up the West Coast of Florida.
Tracking the storm
A reminder: The best way to track the storm’s path is through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Hurricane Center.
We also recommend signing up for Alert Tampa, the city’s emergency alerts system — and Alert Pinellas if you’re in Pinellas County — for updates on evacuation orders being lifted, shelters, and storm debris pickups.
Plus, check with Hillsborough or Pinellas to see when your child’s school will reopen.
Once the storm passes, what’s next?
Run from water, hide from wind. Stay inside until the storm passes and the storm surge flows back to the Gulf. Driving on flooded streets can cause your car to stall out or even catch on fire.
Better safe than sorry. Don’t try to walk four-legged friends down flooded streets. Power lines, snakes, and other dangerous debris can hide under sitting water. To report a downed power line, call Tampa Electric at (888) 223-0800 or Duke Energy at (800) 228-8485.
Strong winds and heavy rain are likely to leave your yard in sorry shape. To prevent sitting debris from killing your lawn, collect tree limbs, leaves, and fallen flowers for Tampa or St. Pete pickup.
Events
Thursday, Sept. 26
“Mississippi Scholar” | Thursday, Sept. 26 | 7:30 p.m. | Tampa Theatre | $16+ | The 2024 film follows an underprivileged intellectual trying to realize his dream — this screening benefits Tampa’s Knowledge of Self Academy.
Friday, Sept. 27
Creatures of the Night | Friday, Sept. 27-Saturday, Sept. 28 | 4-10 p.m. | ZooTampa | $38+ | Head to the zoo for a Halloweeny night complete with animals, freaky frights, and autumnal treats.
Lawrence | Friday, Sept. 27 | 7 p.m. | Jannus Live, St. Petersburg | $28 | See the pop-soul sibling duo as on this leg of “The Family Business Tour.”
Tampa Bay Kids Expo | Saturday, Sept. 28 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | WestShore Plaza | Free | Bring the kiddos to learn about community programs + services while enjoying crafts, demos, and an obstacle course.
Beats on the Street | Sunday, Sept. 29 | 3-9 p.m. | Water Street Tampa | Free | Traverse the bustling neighborhood to the sound of TBAY’s best local musicians.
Editor’s note: Some events may be canceled, changed, or postponed due to inclement weather.
We’ve been waiting for this one. DICK’S House of Sport opens at International Plaza next month. The grand opening of the shopping + sports paradise kicks off Friday, Oct. 11, and will feature appearances from pro athletes like Evan Longoria, Derrick Brooks, Andrei Vasilevskiy, and Caeleb Dressel. (That’s So Tampa)
Development
Goody Goody is slinging its last burgers in Hyde Park, but what’s next for the primo location? Real estate experts say the location could be transformed into a new restaurant, retail, or a midrise, mixed-use redevelopment. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Coming Soon
Calling all Cook Out devotees. Soon you’ll be able to indulge in the fan-favorite milkshakes, burgers, and hush puppies in the Burg. The fast-casual chain announced it will be opening its first location on 4th Street North, but an exact date has not been disclosed. (St. Pete Rising)
Try This
More than Bolts wins await you at the Ice Palace. Amalie Arena is unveiling some upgrades for the new Lightning season. Expect to see improvements like a $6.5 million digital video wall, upgraded DJ booth for pregame beats, and a new $2.5 million food hall. (That’s So Tampa)
Transit
Amtrak is launching a new route from Miami to Chicago — and it stops in Tampa. The new temporary Floridian route will ferry travelers to the Midwest in 47 hours. The first trip leaves the station on Sunday, Nov. 10. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Real Estate
It’s just under 500 sqft, but this Indian Rocks Beach cottage is on the market for ~$1 million. Built in 1948 as part of the Sea Wolf Motel, the home offers one bedroom and one bathroom. Why the hefty cost? You can walk out the backdoor to the beach. (Creative Loafing Tampa Bay)
Sports
Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving has earned more reps according to head coach Todd Bowles. Get game coverage, analysis, insights, interviews, and more from local experts of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with Locked On’s daily podcasts.
Beauty
You don’t have to break the bank to attain strong, silky-soft hair. Pantene’s Keratin Leave-In Conditioner can repair split ends + protect against future damage for less than $20.*
Finance
Experts say thousands of folks with credit card debt are flocking to this leading card, which now offers 0% interest on balance transfers and purchases until nearly 2026. Pay down debts + avoid fees? Sounds like a fall must-do.*
Play
New kids on the block
Stay in the know with 18 new and upcoming Tampa Bay restaurants
Say hello to Juno & the Peacock and Pluma. | Photo by TBAYtoday
Some people make to-do lists — we make to-dine lists. Many hot new Tampa + St. Pete restaurants have opened over the past several months, from palate challengers to homey comforts.
To satisfy those who are really hungry for fresh dining options, we’ve got details on TBAY restaurants coming soon, too. Grab your forks as we dig right in.
Newly open
Juno & the Peacock, 400 Beach Dr. NE, St. Pete | New American Coastal Cuisine | Reservations: Yes
The new concept in the former 400 Beach spot, serves Maryland crab cakes, Wagyu beef carpaccio, and ample yummy drinks at its swanky cocktail lounge, Pluma. Spoiler: It’s incredible.
Stormrunners Tavern, 3128 Beach Blvd S., Gulfport | Casual eats | Reservations: No
Gulfport’s new bar + restaurant just opened in the former Caddy’s location. The casual eatery is perched in the perfect spot for sunset viewing at Boca Ciega Bay sunset.
A set of glass cups with bamboo lids and straws. These fan-favorite drinking cups are great for ciders, mocktails, and cocktails, plus they’re perfect for year-round iced coffee fans (we know you’re out there).
Hey, TBAY. I hope you’re weathering the storm alright. We’ll be covering all the updates you need to know in the newsletter, but we’re sharing even more timely updates on social.
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