HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. — Preparations are underway across the Tampa Bay area as we continue to track Tropical Storm Helene.
Crews in Hillsborough County are working to clear storm drains and ditches to mitigate flooding where possible.
Josh Bellotti is Hillsborough County’s director of engineering and operations.
“We have crews like this out in various parts of the county right now, clearing storm drains, structures and clearing storm drains in preparation for the storm,” he said.
Sarasota County is also preparing for the storm, with crews working to mitigate flooding from heavy rain and storm surge.
“We’re looking at all of our storm water infrastructure to clear existing debris hotspots and allow storm water to flow, in addition to pump stations at St. Armands, Siesta Key Beach and Philippi Creek,” said Spencer Anderon, the county’s public works director.
Meanwhile, in Manatee County, crews finished maintenance work on the dam at Lake Manatee on Monday.
All three mechanical gates are now operational and crews have lowered the water level at Manatee Lake.
The county said crews will continue to monitor water levels.
As Hurricane Helen continues to strengthen toward the Panhandle, Meteorologist Dennis Phillips gives us an update on its impacts on Florida.
Tropics Tracking | September 25th Evening Update
