Morning Briefing Tampa February 19 2026

Good morning, Tampa Bay. Here’s what you need to know today.

Your Weather Planner

After areas of fog and clouds this morning, it will become mostly sunny this afternoon.

Highs will reach the low 80s.

An onshore wind will keep it in the 70s near the coast.

Expect areas of dense fog and sea fog tonight and Friday.

Get the full forecast here. 

Check your hour-by-hour forecast here | Share your weather photos

Around Tampa Bay

1. SNAP food restrictions coming to Florida
On April 20, some items including soda and candy will be ineligible for SNAP in the Sunshine State. 

2. Hillsborough County’s school zone speed camera tickets up more than 1,000%, but program has critics
A Spectrum Bay News 9 investigation found that the program has led to a massive spike in tickets and raised questions from drivers about whether it’s improving safety or generating revenue.

3. FDOT seeks public input on options for Longboat Key Bridge
State transportation officials are asking the public for input on the future of the State Road 789 Bridge on Longboat Key — a decision that could significantly affect traffic and businesses on the island.

4. Grant to revitalize North Greenwood area gets boost
Clearwater City Council recently approved a boost to the North Greenwood CRA Residential Exterior Improvement Grant Program. Our story includes a link to the application.

Around the Nation & World

1. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office

2. DHS funding impasse: Jeffries says ball is in White House court as it calls latest Democratic proposal ‘unserious’

3. States sue Trump administration over canceled energy infrastructure grants

4. U.S. and Canada reach Olympic men’s hockey semifinals after dramatic overtime wins

Quote of the Day

Mikaela Shiffrin’s fourth trip to the Olympics came with a golden ending. The skiing star won the slalom on the world’s biggest stage for the first time in 12 years with a triumphant performance in Cortina. The 30-year-old Shiffrin said she’s learned to block out the noise and pressure that comes with competing at the Games.

She instead has tried focus on the joy of skiing that drew her to the sport in the first place. Shiffrin says she knows she would have invited more criticism if she had faltered, but added the challenge of finding her best was worth the risk.