Category: News
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This morning’s satellite imagery shows that INVEST 92L is looking robust. It wouldn’t be surprising if advisories are issued soon, naming it “Milton.” A hurricane will likely form in the Gulf over the next few days. The storm’s projected path is unusual; few storms originate in the Bay of Campeche and head towards Florida. Typically,…
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The City of Gulfport will be closing the Hurricane Helene Donation Center at the Gulfport Senior Center, located at 5501 27th Ave S. This essential resource for collecting supplies to support those impacted by Hurricane Helene will shut down on Monday, October 7, 2024. The City expresses its deep gratitude to the community for their…
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By early next week, there’s a strong likelihood of a tropical cyclone forming in the Gulf of Mexico. Current forecast models suggest that either a tropical or subtropical cyclone could develop between Saturday evening and Monday. (photo credit WTOK) Although some wind shear could impede its formation, there’s a chance it could develop just south…
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The recent tropical system that battered St. Petersburg has left in its wake an environmental crisis, as nearly 1.5 million gallons of untreated wastewater surged through city neighborhoods. The storm’s powerful surge overwhelmed the city’s infrastructure, leading to widespread sewage discharges. At the heart of this environmental emergency was the Northeast Water Reclamation Facility (NWRF),…
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The Saturday Morning Market is back at Al Lang Stadium for its 2024-25 season, kicking off on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Over 100 vendors will be on hand, offering fresh and organic produce, meats, seafood, fresh breads, prepared food items, ready-to-eat meals, and much more. In addition, local artists and…
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There’s been a lot of back-and-forth about the potential for a Gulf storm recently. (image credit National Hurricane Center) Unlike Hurricane Helene, the current situation is much different. The National Hurricane System and other forecast models have had a hard time deciding if a standalone storm will develop or if we’ll see a low-pressure area…
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This Sunday, October 6th, a popular beachside bar is transforming into a hub of hope and support for those impacted by the recent tropical system. Starting at noon, the Tiki Tim’s Pub and Grille, located at 923 72nd St N, will host a vibrant fundraiser aimed at uplifting local enterprises and residents still reeling from…
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The aftermath of last week’s devastating tropical system continues to unfold across the southern Appalachians, with western North Carolina bearing the brunt of the catastrophe. As of Friday, search and rescue operations persist in their grim task of locating hundreds of missing individuals amidst a rising death toll that has surpassed 200, making this the…
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Ready to make the most of your weekend in Tampa Bay? From community volunteer opportunities to fun-filled festivals, there’s no shortage of events to keep you entertained and engaged from October 4 to 6. Whether you’re looking to lend a helping hand in hurricane recovery efforts or just unwind with some local delights, our top…
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Florida has once again solidified its status as a hub for the ultra-wealthy. A recent Forbes report revealed that 54 billionaires from the Sunshine State made the prestigious Forbes 400 list of the richest Americans. (photo credit Forbes) Leading the pack is Jeff Bezos, the founder of Amazon, who holds the title of Florida’s wealthiest…
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Flood damage stands as the most prevalent natural disaster in the U.S. and among the most expensive. Florida, being highly susceptible, saw only about 18% of homeowners with flood insurance in 2022 – just two years ago. This figure is expected to rise since Citizens Property Insurance mandated flood insurance for policyholders in special flood…
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Josephine’s Italian Market has just swung open its doors in Tampa Bay, with its new spot at 730 W Brandon Blvd. Inside, you’ll find an array of Italian delicacies like Roman-style pizza, specialty roast coffee, take-and-bake bread, beer, wine, and decadent desserts. (photo credit Josephine’s Italian Market) Whether you want to whip up an Italian…
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Get ready for a baseball experience like no other! The Savannah Bananas are bringing their viral Banana Ball phenomenon to St. Petersburg in 2025. The team will play at Tropicana Field on March 15th and 16th. (photo credit Savannah Bananas) If you’re unfamiliar with the Bananas, they’ve taken the baseball world by storm with their…
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A prominent Tampa Bay area food bank has mobilized an extraordinary relief effort, providing over 725,000 meals to affected communities. Feeding Tampa Bay’s quick response included delivering 2,500 hot meals to emergency personnel, vulnerable residents, and care facilities in dire need. (photo credit Feeding Tampa Bay) The outpouring of community support has been remarkable, with…
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Beginning today, residents affected by recent storms can access a centralized “insurance village” to streamline their insurance claim processes, hosted by the Florida Department of Financial Services’ Division of Consumer Services. The Florida Division of Consumer Services has coordinated with over 40 insurance providers to offer on-site support at this temporary facility. Its primary goal…
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Lithium-ion batteries can catch fire and erupt immediately after water exposure, but fires may break out hours, days, or even weeks. Any size battery poses a potential danger, regardless if it’s powering something as small as a handheld tool or as large as an electric vehicle. (image credit Palm Harbor Fire Dept / Pinellas County…
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Hurricane Helene’s extensive devastation along the Gulf Coast has led researchers at the University of South Florida (USF) St. Petersburg campus to unveil a groundbreaking web application that harnesses the power of crowd-sourced data to forecast future flood risks. (photo credit http://www.flood-report.cris-hazard.org) CRIS-HAZARD: A Collaborative Approach to Flood Mapping The CRIS-HAZARD app, launched in 2023…
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A low-pressure system lurking in the Gulf of Mexico is poised to drench parts of Florida, including the Tampa Bay region, as early as next week. This comes despite the National Hurricane Center’s downgraded forecast, now giving the system only a 30% chance of developing into a named storm over the coming week. (photo credit…
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St. Petersburg’s vibrant coffee scene is about to welcome a unique addition with the imminent opening of Daycation, a specialty coffee and tea shop infused with Asian influences. Situated at 189 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street North, just north of Central Avenue, this cozy establishment is poised to offer a fresh take on the…
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Mark your calendars for Friday, October 25, as Seminole’s beloved Halloween extravaganza, Field of Screams, makes its eagerly awaited comeback. This free, family-oriented event will transform the Seminole Recreation Center Fields at 9100 113th Street North into a whimsical world of Halloween delights from 6 pm to 9 pm. A Haunting Haven for All Ages…
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Hurricane Helene has etched its name in U.S. history as one of the most catastrophic storms to strike the mainland in half a century. As southeastern states grapple with the aftermath, the toll on human life and infrastructure continues to mount. (photo credit City of Treasure Island) Grim Statistics and Historical Context The latest figures…
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Eight days after Hurricane Helene’s devastating six-foot storm surge swept through downtown St. Petersburg, approximately 200 residents of the Municipal Marina find themselves in a precarious situation. With no electricity and an uncertain future, many feel overlooked by city officials. (photo credit St. Pete Catalyst) A Marina in Distress The once-bustling 640-slip facility, often touted…
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Federal officials have proposed a rule to implement the REAL ID requirements in phases, offering potential flexibility before the final deadline. Under the 2005 REAL ID Act, Florida travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license, ID card, or other accepted documentation to board domestic flights, enter federal buildings, or nuclear power plants. Though the…
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Citizens Property Insurance Corporation, Florida’s leading home insurer, is taking a firm stance on hurricane damage claims. The state-backed company, which disbursed nearly $3 billion across 200,000 policies in the wake of Hurricane Ian, is now requiring policyholders to demonstrate that these funds were indeed used for home repairs. This move could potentially lead to…
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Looking for ways to get your Halloween fix this year? St. Pete has you covered with a hauntingly good selection of events, from spooky cruises to family-friendly festivals. Calling All Cult Classics: Fright Nights and Haunted Happenings: Family-Friendly Fun: Don’t Forget the Gourds and Ghouls: Something Wicked This Way Comes… No matter how you like…
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Residents of Pinellas County’s barrier islands are grappling with a new reality In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene: life without running water. For approximately 7,500 households and businesses south of John’s Pass, the simple luxury of turning on a tap has become a distant memory. (photo credit ABC Action News Tampa) Treasure Island: A Microcosm…
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The National Hurricane Center is monitoring a low-pressure system forming in the Caribbean and moving into the Gulf of Mexico, which could develop into a tropical storm. In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact across the Southeastern United States, the confirmed death toll has risen to 182, spanning six states. Reports indicate that Florida…
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Pinellas County, along with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), is actively monitoring red tide levels across various areas in the county. (photo credit WUSF) According to officials, moderate concentrations of red tide have been observed near St. Pete Beach, Madeira Beach, and the Dunedin Causeway, while lower levels were detected off Pass-a-Grille,…
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In the unbelievable aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary in Indian Shores has emerged as a testament to nature’s resilience and human dedication. Despite facing extensive damage from the storm surge, the beachfront facility achieved a remarkable feat: all of its feathered residents survived the ordeal. Assessing the Aftermath Upon their return on…
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Tyrone Square Mall is getting a new tenant. But this time, instead of a retailer, it’s games that will be offered to the public. And, the new business is going to be located just down from the food court, right next to Old Navy. Opened in 1972, the indoor mall at the intersection of its…
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The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported on Wednesday the formation of a new weather system in the far reaches of the eastern tropical Atlantic Ocean. Designated as Tropical Depression 13, this budding storm has caught the attention of meteorologists who anticipate its potential growth into a hurricane as the weekend approaches. Current Status and Location…
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The National Hurricane Center (NHC) is currently monitoring a trio of weather systems in the Atlantic, with one potentially posing a risk to Florida or the Gulf Coast in the coming week. Gulf Disturbance Raises Concerns A tropical disturbance is making its way towards the Gulf of Mexico, with forecasters predicting it could evolve into…
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The Cross Bay Ferry will make its long-awaited return this weekend, resuming its route between Tampa and St. Petersburg on Friday, October 4. Offering a scenic and convenient travel option, the ferry will operate from Wednesday through Sunday, catering to both residents and visitors seeking a unique way to commute or explore the area. This…
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Pinellas County is reeling in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the worst storm to hit the area in a century according to Administrator Barry Burton. Officials extended the local state of emergency for a week on Tuesday as recovery efforts slowly begin. (Photo credit: WFLA) Devastating Damage: Storm Surge Fury: Recovery Efforts Take Shape: Meeting…
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Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri announced that Hurricane Helene has claimed eleven lives in the county, with the majority of fatalities occurring in mandatory evacuation Zone A. The victims, identified as residents from various coastal areas like Indian Rocks Beach, St. Pete Beach, and Madeira Beach, mostly perished from drowning due to storm surges and…
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Hurricane Helene has left many homeowners in Pinellas County facing unexpected challenges. As the community comes together to recover, there’s a troubling issue on the rise: price gouging. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office is stepping in to inform residents about this unethical practice and provide tips on how to protect themselves. Understanding Price Gouging: What…
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A heartening display of community spirit is spreading across Tampa Bay. Now, various St. Petersburg businesses are stepping forward to offer complimentary services and resources to residents grappling with Hurricane Helene’s aftermath. These initiatives aim to provide moments of respite and practical support during the challenging recovery period. Wellness and Self-Care: Sunstate Yoga is opening…
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The southeastern United States continues to grapple with the catastrophic aftermath of Hurricane Helene, as the death toll climbs and millions remain without basic services. As of Tuesday morning, at least 133 fatalities have been confirmed across six states, with North Carolina bearing the brunt of the loss at 56 deaths. South Carolina follows with…
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In a show of community support following the destructive impact of Hurricane Helene, Winn-Dixie and its charitable arm, the Winn-Dixie Gives Foundation, are organizing a significant relief effort this Wednesday, October 2. The supermarket chain plans to provide complimentary groceries and essential items to over 500 storm-affected residents in Madeira Beach. The distribution event will…
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In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s destructive path through Florida, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has activated its disaster assistance program. This initiative aims to support homeowners and renters who have suffered uninsured losses due to the hurricane. FEMA’s aid package covers a wide range of needs, including temporary housing, basic home repairs, personal…
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With Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact on the southeastern United States just days old, meteorologists at the National Hurricane Center (NHC) are now monitoring a complex weather scenario involving five tropical systems in the Atlantic basin and Gulf of Mexico. This heightened tropical activity comes as communities from Florida to Virginia grapple with the aftermath of…
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Over the past century, it has weathered numerous storms, including major hurricanes such as the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, Hurricane Donna in 1960, and more recent storms like Hurricane Irma in 2017. Given Tampa Bay’s vulnerability to tropical storms and hurricanes, the Gandy Bridge has been subjected to multiple extreme weather events, enduring strong winds,…
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The PCSO reports an increase in construction companies and door-to-door salespeople going to houses damaged by Hurricane Helene in several mainland neighborhoods and also trying to gain access to the beach communities. Be aware that unlicensed contractors often target homeowners following a storm and may offer low rates and fast turnaround times. While some of…
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