Tampa officials have issued a stern warning to residents in mandatory evacuation zones, emphasizing the critical importance of seeking higher ground before the arrival of Hurricane Helene. The Mayor of Tampa, Jane Castor, highlighted the imminent threat of flooding that the storm is expected to bring, citing past unprecedented rain events that have caused significant inundation in the area.
Mayor Castor emphasized the rapid onset of flooding due to the storm surge, urging residents to prioritize their safety by evacuating to safer locations. While the Tampa Police Department is prepared to conduct rescue operations if necessary, officials are urging residents not to delay evacuation and put themselves in harm's way.
Hillsborough County Commissioner Harry Cohen echoed the concerns raised by Mayor Castor, emphasizing the unprecedented nature of the predicted storm surge, estimated to reach heights of 4 to 8 feet. Commissioner Cohen stressed the need for residents to take the warnings seriously and prepare for potentially severe flooding.
According to Commissioner Cohen, the storm surge is expected to occur after the peak of the storm's impact, underscoring the importance of proactive evacuation measures. With the safety and well-being of residents at the forefront, Tampa officials are urging full compliance with evacuation orders to mitigate the risks posed by Hurricane Helene.
