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.
