Ariel Plasencia
Ariel Plasencia joined FOX 13 in April 2023 and is excited to be reporting in the Sunshine State.
Ariel spent the last four years in Dallas, TX covering news, sports (yes, including the Cowboys), and traffic. From stories on TCU’s run in the College Football Playoff National Championship to issues with the power grid to all things barbecue, Ariel wore many (cowboy) hats during her time in the Lone Star State.
Before Texas, she worked as a reporter and anchor in North Carolina.
A Chicago native, Ariel grew up in cold, windy weather and studied math at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. She received her master’s degree in journalism at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
When she’s not working, Ariel enjoys spending time outdoors – as close to water as possible! – with her husband, two kids and dog. She also loves cheering on the local sports teams – and her Chicago ones, too! (Go Cubs, Bears, Bulls & Blackhawks!)
The latest from Ariel Plasencia
Former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Warrick Dunn hosts charity reunion in Palm Harbor
Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Warrick Dunn is joining around 100 single moms and dads and their families at Innisbrook Resort in Palm Harbor to celebrate nearly three decades of his charity assisting single parents become homeowners.
101-year-old Pasco County veteran gets home renovated after 2024 hurricane damage
A Pasco County World War II veteran has a newly renovated home after suffering damage from the 2024 hurricanes.
Cyclosporiasis outbreak: Five Tampa Bay area cases reported
Local health experts are watching the latest cyclosporiasis outbreak closely as five cases have been reported in the Tampa Bay area.
Polk County dog's 'swamp cancer' battle sparks warning over stagnant water
A Bartow woman is warning pet owners after her dog spent the last year battling a near-fatal disease called "swamp cancer."
New Bexley Box in Lakeland to help officers comfort young victims
The Lakeland Police Department received a Bexley Box on Monday, providing essential supplies and toys to help care for kids affected by crimes and traumatic incidents.
Tampa doctors warn of Fourth of July burn hazards
As people across the Bay Area get ready to celebrate America’s 250th birthday, doctors at Tampa General Hospital (TGH) are urging caution following several burn cases during last year's celebrations.
CDC reports early, strong start to West Nile virus season
With the Fourth of July weekend approaching, health officials are urging Tampa Bay area residents to protect themselves against mosquito bites as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tracks an early and strong start to the West Nile virus season.
Tampa water quality: New first-of-its-kind treatment facility to remove forever chemicals
The city of Tampa is building a new facility that will use Suspended Ion Exchange (SIX) treatment technology to remove PFAS and organic matter from the local water supply.
Hillsborough County dog heat deaths: 3 pets die in less than two weeks
Three dogs have died after being kept outside in three different cases over two weeks, prompting urgent warnings from Hillsborough County Animal Control and local veterinarians.
How a Tampa restaurant is helping Venezuela earthquake victims
The devastation of two earthquakes in Venezuela is impacting the Bay Area, where locals are sharing firsthand accounts and others are stepping up to provide relief.