Tropical Storm Helene: Tampa Mayor Jane Castor, city officials discuss storm preps

TAMPA, Fla. - Tampa city leaders held a press conference on Tuesday morning to discuss storm preparations ahead of what is expected to become Hurricane Helene.

The National Hurricane Center says Tropical Storm Helene will likely become a hurricane on Tuesday and continue strengthening as it moves across the eastern Gulf of Mexico. A hurricane watch and a storm surge watch are in effect for portions of the Tampa Bay area.

Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency on Monday.

"These hurricanes and tropical storms always change, so again be aware and be prepared," said Castor.

TS Helene: Tampa Mayor provides update

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and other city leaders held a press conference on Tuesday morning to discuss storm preps ahead of what is expected to become Hurricane Helene. A hurricane watch and a storm surge watch are in effect for portions of the Tampa Bay area.

The mayor was joined by Fire Chief Barbara Tripp, Police Chief Lee Bercaw, and Emergency Management Director John Antapasis. They discussed how Tampa residents should prepare for the impact of Helene.

READ: Live updates: Hurricane, storm surge watches issued for Tampa Bay area for system expected to become Helene

"What we ask of everyone, the long-timers and newcomers is to please, please pay attention to this storm and all of the others as well," shared Castor.

Residents can text "Tampa ready" to 8877 to get updates as things occur in the city of Tampa. For residents who want updates in Spanish, they can text "Tampa lista" to the same number.

Officials said storm surge and flooding will be the biggest concerns for Tampa. Chief Tripp warned that electric vehicles use lithium-ion batteries that cause a potential hazard.

READ: Tropical Storm Helene: County-by-county guide

"If you have an electric vehicle, do not drive it through the water and make sure it's checked out before you continue to use it after the storm," explained Tripp.

If generators are used, Tripp said they should not be operated inside homes or overloaded.

The City of Tampa and Hillsborough County are monitoring dozens of pumping stations to ensure all infrastructure is clear and functioning properly.

Castor asked residents to heed any evacuation warnings that may be announced before the storm reaches the Bay Area. To find your evacuation zone, click here.

STAY CONNECTED WITH FOX 13 TAMPA: