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Tag: Storm Season

  • Where to expect tropical activity in June

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    The Atlantic hurricane season officially began on June 1.

    With above normal activity expected, it’s important to know where tropical systems could form.

    What You Need To Know

    • June tropical activity is most likely in the Gulf

    • Storms that develop typically move northeastward

    • Only four June hurricanes have made landfall in the U.S. since 1950


    Even though systems can form before hurricane season, June is still very early in hurricane season. Tropical systems typically struggle to develop, and those that do usually only strengthen into a disorganized system or weak hurricane.

    The most favorable areas for tropical development in June are the Gulf, the northern Caribbean Sea and the southwestern Atlantic Ocean, just off the southeastern coast.

    Systems that develop typically take a northeastward track. 

    Since 1950, only four hurricanes have made landfall in the U.S. during June, all of them along the Gulf Coast. Bonnie and Agnes made landfall as Category 1 hurricanes, while Audrey and Alma strengthened into major hurricanes. 

    Development zones expand and tropical activity increases as we get further into summer. 

    Read More About Hurricanes


    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • It’s the first day of Atlantic hurricane season

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    Today is the first day of the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. Here are some helpful resources to help you and your family prepare.

    How to prepare?

    Even if you are not in a storm’s path, there are ways to prepare in advance that will make it easier for you when the time comes. It’s important to know if you live in an evacuation zone, and if so, to develop an evacuation plan for you and your family.

    You can assemble a hurricane kit, including items like non-perishable food for your family and pets, water, flashlights, a first aid kit and more.

    Also, reviewing your insurance plans if you own a home and to sign up for flood insurance if it is a separate plan.

    Here is a full breakdown of how to prepare you and your family and what you can do today.

    This year’s forecast

    NOAA and Colorado State University are both predicting above normal activity this season.

    This year’s forecast includes several factors, primarily continued ENSO-neutral conditions, warmer than average ocean temperatures, forecasts for weak wind shear and the potential for higher activity from the West African Monsoon, a primary starting point for Atlantic hurricanes.

    More resources

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • Test your hurricane knowledge with tropical trivia

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    Take this short quiz to test your hurricane knowledge.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • All info, one place: Manatee County tries new hurricane approach

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Manatee County is utilizing a new technological system during hurricanes that integrates all data into a single place. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Hurricane Milton made landfall near Manatee County, and Hurricane Helene caused significant damage in the same area

    • Manatee County leaders used to run separate programs with all their hurricane data, what some called “siloed systems” 

    • They are now utilizing a system that integrates all relevant hurricane data into one place 

    • Emergency management officials say the change will make their hurricane response more informed and more efficient 


    Previously, Manatee County had to switch between different programs — what some call “siloed systems” — to access data on:

    • Rain totals
    • Wind speed
    • Forecasts
    • Lift station metrics
    • Shelter occupancy
    • Power outages
    • Road closures
    • Evacuation routes
    • Damage totals

    Now, using a program run by a company called Peregrine, Manatee County can click through all of that data in a single place.

    “We make our decisions based on the most current information we have at the time,” said Jodie Fiske, Manatee County’s Director of Public Safety. “At no point are we making a decision on evacuations or opening shelters without looking at the most up-to-date data we have.”

    Fiske said having real-time damage estimates – which even show which areas of Manatee County have received the most damage – will be most valuable. She said this will help the county offer the most-detailed damage estimate when asking for state or federal aid.

    Manatee County set up what they call the “GIS Room,” with six monitors showing all the information in real time.

    The Peregrine system also logs historical data, allowing emergency management leaders the ability to compare current storms to past storms. 

    “Manatee County’s deployment of Peregrine last year demonstrated the power of real-time data integration and historical analysis in managing complex storm response operations,” said Peregrine CEO Nick Noone. “Together, we’re ensuring Manatee County has the tools and capabilities to protect lives and safeguard critical infrastructure when it matters most.”

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    Jeff Butera

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  • Parrish family invests in new equipment and techniques to prevent flooding

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Some residents who are in a low flood risk areas, or maybe not in a flood zone at all, had major flooding problems last year. 

    We spoke to a Manatee County resident who is installing pumps on his property to move the water out and prevent issues in the future.

    What You Need To Know

    • Bradley Anderson and his family live in a low-risk flood zone in Parrish 

    • Their property flooded for the first time last storm season

    • Now Anderson and his family have invested in new equipment and techniques to hopefully prevent another flood

    Heavy lifting is part of Bradley Anderson’s new plan.

    “Right now we are starting the process of being proactive,” he said.

    In this case, he’s creating a drainage path by moving dirt.

    “And moving a lot of dirt to raise certain portions of the property to drain water where we need it to,” he said.

    Bradley Anderson’s property flooded property. (Courtesy: Bradley Anderson)

    This new approach comes after his family’s Parrish property flooded multiple times during last year’s hurricane season.

    “I don’t want to become a statistic. Seeing so many folks that assume that what they’re doing is going to be enough. I need to control the part that I can,” he said.

    But no one can control the force of a storm. Anderson sent us video of flooding on his property.

    It’s in Flood Zone X, considered to be low-risk, yet flooded in Debby, Helene, and Milton.

    “We would be sloshing through water and it ran up all the way to the front of the home,” he said.

    Bradley Anderson's property flooded property. (Courtesy: Bradley Anderson)

    Bradley Anderson’s property flooded property. (Courtesy: Bradley Anderson)

    Our weather experts shared data from an Ellenton rain gauge for those three storms.

    The total from both Debby – 14.6 inches – and Milton – 6.2 inches – exceeded the monthly averages, while Helene also dropped nearly 2.5 inches of rain in central Manatee County.

    If the property floods again, Anderson says he will use a pump to drain the water.

    “As the water starts to rise, the pump kicks in. This provides a lot more peace of mind,” he said.

    And there’s more than 500 feet of pipe that he will run to the front of their land.

    “We’re just taking all necessary precautions because you never know when one storm or the surrounding impact is going to come through,” he said.

    Bradley Anderson's property flooded property. (Courtesy: Bradley Anderson)

    Bradley Anderson’s property flooded property. (Courtesy: Bradley Anderson)

    The water will then dump out here into a culvert.

    “Our hope is that the utilities work the way they are designed to,” he said.

    From priming the pipes on his property, to preparing a large hole for excess waste, it will take weeks to complete everything. And even then, the homeowners tell me they are worried it won’t be enough.

    “This is a lot of labor — a labor of love,” he said.

    But it’s also been a large financial investment for his family.

    “The pumps alone, we’re in the low thousands. The equipment rental itself — I mean, you’re talking hundreds of dollars per day,” he said.

    Each day, as Anderson continues to prepare, he is counting on this project to safeguard the property for future storm seasons.

    Anderson tells us it will take a month to complete moving the dirt to elevate part of his property.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Two Pasco County women’s stories of survival during Hurricane Helene

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    PASCO COUNTY, Fla. — It’s a critical question many Floridians contemplate during hurricane season — should I stay or should I go?

    What You Need To Know

    • Evacuating during a storm can have its setbacks but, ultimately, can be the difference between life and death

    • Two Pasco women shared their stories of survival during Hurricane Helene, a storm that created two different experiences for the survivors
    • Kate Mullin evacuated her home before the storm reached land, but Stacey Van Schenck decided to stay at her home during the storm
    • Today, both continue picking up the pieces of their home left after the storm


    Evacuating during a storm can have its setbacks but, ultimately, can be the difference between life and death.

    On the water’s edge in Hudson, proudly stands the home of Kate Mullin.

    “This is where I live full time,” she says. “This is my home. I have electric and that’s it, really. Oh, and water.”

    It’s been eight months since Hurricane Helene, which flooded Mullin’s home and forced her to evacuate. Its impression is still noticeable on the home’s walls.

    Kate Mullin evacuated during Hurricane Helene (Courtesy: Calvin Lewis / Spectrum News)

    “It’s hard when you come back and you’ve got four and a half feet of flood water that’s just taken away everything you’ve worked the last year for,” said Mullin, who evacuated during Hurricane Helene.

    Being in a mandatory evacuation zone, Mullin says she headed inland to Spring Hill. But it didn’t come without any sacrifices, as she had to leave her cat ‘Robby’ behind. Mullin jokes the cat may have a life or two left.

    “Five. He’s had two, one with each storm.”

    Jokes aside, had Mullin also stayed, she says the consequences could have been dire.

    “Probably, if I’d have stayed, which I wouldn’t have thought about to do because you know how bad floods can be. I wouldn’t have made it,” she said/

    Thirty minutes south of Mullin in Holiday…

    “I fly an American Flag. I have ever since I bought the house and previous owners did, too. It’s one of my favorite parts of the house.”

    Stacey Van Schenck has a different story — one that did not involve evacuating.

    “I’ve lived through all of them and never experienced anything like what I just experienced,” said Van Schenck.

    Van Schenck’s sentiment is one many Floridians share, thinking a storm won’t impact them until it does.

    Stacey Van Schenck did not evacuate during Hurricane Helene (Courtesy: Calvin Lewis / Spectrum News)

    Stacey Van Schenck did not evacuate during Hurricane Helene (Courtesy: Calvin Lewis / Spectrum News)

    “Complacency is something that the folks around Tampa Bay have dealt with many hurricane seasons over,” says Spectrum Bay News 9 meteorologist Josh Linker. Linker says Hurricane Helene changed people’s perspective. So when Hurricane Milton approached weeks later, people started thinking of evacuating early.

    “The challenge with that, deciding not to evacuate early, is that maybe your neighborhood is not going to be underwater, but your evacuation path might be,” Linker said. “In this area here, as an example, in North St. Pete, this was under several feet of water, making certain intersections and roadways impassable. If you made that decision late, that’s going to cause some bigger problems for you.”

    Van Schenck says by the time she thought about evacuating, it was too late. It is a lesson she’s learned for the future.

    “I think what people lose sight of, and myself as well, is if you don’t evacuate and you have a medical emergency, first responders can’t get to you,” said Van Schenk. “So you’re putting your own life at risk, not only for the dangers of the storm, but after the fact.”

    A view Mullin shares…

    “If they tell you evacuate, I evacuate,” she says. “You can’t live on the water and just think that’s OK.”

    Both women continue picking up the pieces. With a few surprises to be found along the way, including Van Schenk’s missing flag.

    “That makes my heart happy; like I said, things like this, that excites me,” says Van Schenk. “It’s a sign of hope to me, for some reason, that just makes my day to see that’s where my flag is. And I can’t believe in six months I haven’t noticed that.”

    A small glimmer of hope during a difficult time, surviving a storm season that left a lasting impact on both women’s lives.

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    Calvin Lewis

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  • Tampa Bay’s complete guide to Storm Season 2025

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    TAMPA, Fla. — It’s that time of the year again, Hurricane Season! Coming off of a tough 2024 season that had 18 named storms, 11 hurricanes and five of those reaching major status, the Tampa Bay community has been forever changed. The biggest impacts to our area were Hurricanes Debby, Helene and Milton.

    Hurricane Debby brought an impressive amount of rainfall, as well as flooding, to the Tampa Bay area. Some of the highest rainfall totals were in Myakka City (21.70″), Parrish (18.86″), Lakewood Ranch (16.56″) and Pinellas Park (14.04″). This led to historic flooding of the Manatee River, with a record crest of 20.1 feet at Rye Bridge, producing major flooding. The Alafia River and Little Manatee River in Hillsborough County also saw major flooding.

    Hurricane Helene made landfall in Perry, Fla. on September 26th, with winds of 140 mph at its peak. This was the strongest storm to ever make landfall along the Big Bend coast of Florida. Even though it didn’t make landfall in the Tampa Bay area, it still brought six to eight feet of storm surge in some areas that caused a lot of flooding and damage to our coastline. After the storm had passed, many residents of the barrier islands were shocked at the amount of sand that was brought in and deposited in the streets and in homes.  

    Just two weeks after Helene, Hurricane Milton would bring heavy rainfall, damaging winds and some strong tornadoes throughout southeastern Florida. Milton would become one of the strongest hurricanes on record in the Atlantic Basin, reaching Category 5 intensity in the Gulf on October 7th with winds peaking at 180 mph. Two days later, Milton would make landfall on October 9th at 8:30 p.m. as a Category 3 storm with winds of 115mph.

    Milton hit so close to Helene that it wrecked many communities that were already struggling to recover. The winds were so strong, they even ripped the roof off of Tropicana Field. The skeleton of the roof can still be seen today, as the city is still working to repair it. The NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) estimates that Milton caused $34.3 billion in damage in the United States, almost exclusively in Florida.

    The roof of the Tropicana Field is damaged the morning after Hurricane Milton hit the region, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)

    2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season (June 1 – Nov. 30)

    As we begin to prepare for the upcoming season, it’s good to have an idea on what we could be dealing with. Earlier this year, Colorado State University released their yearly forecast and they are expecting 17 named storms, 9 of those storms becoming hurricanes and 4 of those reaching major hurricane intensity (Category 3+).

    The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released their outlook on May 22nd. They are calling for an above normal season this year with 13-19 named storms, 6-10 becoming hurricanes and 3-5 reaching Category 3+.

    And while a lot of the Bay area is still recovering from last year, we are here to help get you ready. Now is the time to get prepared for anything that may come our way this year.

    Now is a great time to create your hurricane kit or stock up one you may already have. You don’t want to wait for a storm to get a name because all eyes will be on the tropics. As the storm approaches, store shelves could empty. So, it’s best to buy everything you’ll need — and want — to have on hand way ahead of time. You don’t want to be caught trying to stock up last minute.

    Here’s a list of all the basics:

    Supply Kit Checklist

    • Flashlights and extra bulbs
    • Battery-operated radio
    • Battery-operated lanterns
    • Extra batteries (various sizes)
    • Wind-up or battery-powered clock
    • Matches
    • First aid kit
    • Duct tape
    • Rain gear
    • Plastic garbage bags
    • Fire extinguisher
    • Scissors
    • Can opener
    • Clean clothes
    • Extra blankets and pillows
    • Heavy gloves
    • Food
      • Bottled water (one gallon/person/day)
      • Two coolers (one for drinks, one for food)
      • Canned foods
      • Bottled juice
      • Dry pet food

    Some residents who are in a low flood risk areas, or maybe not in a flood zone at all, had major flooding problems last year.

    We spoke to a Manatee County resident who is installing pumps on his property to move the water out and prevent issues in the future. Heavy lifting is part of Bradley Anderson’s new plan.

    In this case, he’s creating a drainage path by moving dirt. Read the full story…

    Bradley Anderson moves dirt to create a water drainage path on his Parrish property. (Spectrum Bay News 9/Julia Hazel)

    So many of our neighbors are still trying to repair or rebuild their homes from last year. For those who have substantial damage, it’s even tougher with FEMA offering only three choices: Demolish and rebuild, relocate all together or elevate. This has left thousands of bay area homeowners and businesses in a difficult, costly situation, especially if they choose to remain in their neighborhoods.

    Communities are required to comply with floodplain management regulations to continue participating in the National Flood Insurance Program, which means substantially damaged properties must be relocated, demolished and rebuilt, or elevated to meet or exceed FEMA’s Base Flood Elevation.

    With a substantial damage determination of nearly 75%, Gulfport resident and business owner Barbara Banno is finally starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel after deciding to elevate her hurricane-damaged home. Read the full story…

    Elevated home under construction in Gulfport (Jeff Joiner / Spectrum News)

    When it comes to hurricanes, they are usually rated by their sustained wind speed. But, water is the number 1 reason why people die during tropical cyclones and that could be from storm surge, flooding or high surf.

    Spectrum Bay News 9 Meteorologist Kyle Hanson explains storm surge:

    As a storm approaches the Tampa Bay area, you may be asked to evacuate. The threat of storm surge is why our coastline communities are asked to leave. Hurricane Helene caused storm surge that trapped people in their homes. In Crystal River, emergency officials performed several water rescues the morning after the storm passed. That’s why it is important to listen to officials when evacuation orders are given. We spoke with two Pasco County residents and they explained why they will always heed the warnings. Read the full story…

    It’s a critical question many Floridians contemplate during hurricane season— should I stay or should I go? Evacuating during a storm can have its setbacks but, ultimately, can be the difference between life and death. Two Pasco women share their stories of survival.

    It’s important to know if your home is in a Flood Zone or an Evacuation Zone. A Flood Zone indicates a property’s risk for flooding from rain. But, Evacuation Zones are mapped by local emergency managers to identify areas that could be affected by storm surge.

    To learn if you’re in an evacuation zone, type your address in the map below:

    In Pinellas County, when barrier island residents and business owners evacuate, they must have a permit to re-enter evacuated areas after the storm. 

    In Manatee County, this year, Longboat Key is implementing a new re-entry program. The center of Hurricane Milton’s eye passed just miles south of Longboat Key. Fortunately, many people evacuated, but police say returning to the island after the storm wasn’t a smooth process. There will now be three levels of re-entry.

    • TIER 1: Emergency responders – Don’t need a decal
    • TIER 2: Green Decal for relief workers, health care workers and those who play a role in recovery (Insurance agents, businesses like Ace Hardware)
    • TIER 3: Red Decal for other business owners and residents

    Since the Tampa Bay area has experienced significant impacts from two major hurricanes, a lot of residents are preparing differently for this upcoming season. We got with Manatee County Emergency officials to talk with them on how they are preparing and what they learned last year and how they upgraded the work flow to respond more efficiently. Read the full story…

    Six monitors provide Manatee County real-time hurricane data in one place

    Six monitors provide Manatee County real-time hurricane data in one place

    Every Floridian knows the value of good weather forecasting. This hurricane season, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is facing staffing shortages. Earlier this year more than 1,000 NOAA employees were laid off,  and others were offered voluntary retirement, including many here in Florida. We spoke to a meteorologist from the National Weather Service office in Ruskin, who took that voluntary retirement option, about the impact that these job cuts could have on forecasting weather events. Read the full story…

    Brian LaMarre opted to take a voluntary retirement this year after a 17-year career with NWS Tampa. (Spectrum Bay News 9/Erin Murray)

    Another federal agency that could see changes coming is FEMA. FEMA is the government organization responsible for dealing with national emergencies.

    In Washington, there’s a piece of legislation to reform the agency. The FEMA Independence Act would turn FEMA into an independent agency, removing it from the Department of Homeland Security.

    The bill would also grant the agency a cabinet ranking, with the director reporting to the president.

    President Trump announced a FEMA review council, which includes Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and Florida Division of Emergency Managment Director Kevin Guthrie.

    A FEMA workers walks through the Disaster Recovery Center at Pasadena City College Community Education Center on January 12, 2025. (Spectrum News)

    A FEMA worker walks through the Disaster Recovery Center at Pasadena City College Community Education Center on January 12, 2025. (Spectrum News)

    Getting up-to-the-minute news can be paramount during a storm crisis, so be sure to download the Spectrum News app (iOS) (Google Play Store). With national reach, boots-on-the-ground local coverage and an unimpeachable weather team, we’ve got you covered all storm season long.

    The Spectrum News App’s Storm Season section is designed specifically to provide everything you need to know about hurricane season, from breaking weather reports to the latest news on what you’ll need to prepare for and get through any worst-case scenario, who to contact in an emergency and more. Our dedicated Weather section provides even more comprehensive year-round coverage, including hour-by-hour forecasts and daily updates, facts and knowledge from hometown meteorologists with the experience and expertise residents have trusted for decades. Klystron 9’s cutting-edge radar technology features hyperlocal data and temperature overlays, as well as long-range tropical system cone forecasts to help you plan ahead.

    Download the Spectrum News App

    Download the Spectrum News App

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    Spectrum News Staff, Dan Trotter

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  • NHC updates cone of uncertainty and other parameters ahead of hurricane season

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    The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has unveiled updates to the cone of uncertainty for the upcoming hurricane season, as well as refined other parameters. 

    What You Need To Know

    • Inland tropical watches and warnings will be shown on an experimental map with the cone, similar to 2024 experimental map

    • Potential Tropical Cyclones will be issued up to 72 hours out from a storm

    • A new rip current risk map will be provided by NHC during a tropical event


    Thanks to positive feedback from the 2024 hurricane season, the cone of uncertainty graphic will now display inland watches and warnings to better communicate the wind risk away from the coast. 

    The size of the track forecast cone will appear slightly smaller, about 3 to 5% in the Atlantic basin, compared to 2024. According to the NHC, “the cone represents the probable track of the center of a tropical cyclone.”

    Here is a look at what the new experimental cone will look like.

    The traditional operational cone of uncertainty, without the inand watches/warnings, will continue to be distributed by the NHC. The new, experimental, graphic will be available on the National Hurricane Center website and usually update approximately 30 minutes after the advisory release.

    This experimental graphic will be released for both full and intermediate advisories. 

    Potential Tropical Cyclones

    Since 2017, the NHC has used potential tropical cyclone (PTC) forecasts to alert the public of threats before a storm has even formed. Beginning this hurricane season, they can alert the public up further in advance, now 72 hours out.

    For more information on PTCs, click here. 

    Rip current risk

    Due to increases in rip current and surf fatalities during a tropical event, the NHC has decided to better highlight the risk during tropical events. 

    “They will now provide rip current risk information that originates from local National Weather Service (NWS) Weather Forecast Offices (WFOs) in a national rip current risk map when at least one active tropical system is present.”

    The map will provide rip current risk information but will not give specific information on the height of the surf. Here’s a prototype. 

    2025 Atlantic names

    Here’s a look at the list of names for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season. 

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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  • Floridians mark Hurricane Preparedness Week before season starts

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    TAMPA, Fla. – As Floridians continue to prepare for the upcoming storm season, state officials are focusing on safety with Hurricane Preparedness Week.

    This week’s Hurricane Preparedness Week 2025, which runs through May 10, focuses on a different topic each day. 

    What You Need To Know

    Here’s how the week breaks down:

    May 4:  Know your risk: Wind and water

    May 5:  Prepare before hurricane season

    May 6:  Understand forecast information

    May 7:  Get moving when a storm threatens

    May 8: Stay Protected during storms

    May 9: Use caution after storms

    May 10: Take action today


    The Spectrum Bay News 9 Weather Experts stress the best time to prepare for hurricanes is before hurricane season starts.

    In conjunction with that message, the Bay News 9 Weather Experts will host hurricane expos throughout the Bay area, answering questions and giving a seasonal outlook.

    See the listed dates and locations here.

    Also, before storm season kicks off, now is a good time to download the Spectrum News App.

    The Bay News 9 meteorologists are always providing updates heading into the rainy season and sharing what you should know if anything developments and heads our way.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • It’s National Hurricane Preparedness Week

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    The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is less than one month away, and the time to prepare is now. National Hurricane Preparedness Week began on May 4 and runs through May 10. 

    What You Need To Know

    • It is National Hurricane Preparedness Week

    • Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1

    • It’s time to review your hurricane preparation plans


    How to prepare?

    Even if you are not in a storm’s path, there are ways to prepare in advance that will make it easier for you when the time comes. It’s important to know if you live in an evacuation zone, and if so, to develop an evacuation plan for you and your family.

    You can assemble a hurricane kit, including items like non-perishable food for your family and pets, water, flashlights, a first aid kit and more.

    Also, reviewing your insurance plans if you own a home and to sign up for flood insurance if it is a separate plan.

    Here is a full breakdown of how to prepare you and your family and what you can do today.

    This year’s forecast

    Colorado State University released its outlook for the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season in April, and their researchers are forecasting slightly above normal activity this season.

    This year’s forecast includes several factors, primarily the relatively warm Atlantic and likely the absence of El Niño.

    CSU researchers state that the biggest question marks with this season’s prediction is if the anomalous warmth in the Atlantic and Caribbean persists and expands to the Main Development Region or begins to weaken.

    As always, it only takes one storm to make it a bad season. Here is a full breakdown of this year’s Atlantic hurricane season forecast.

    Changes this season

    The National Hurricane Center is introducing some fresh changes to the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season you can expect to see.

    One new names is on the list this year after Dorian was retired after the 2019 season. The new name replacing it will be Dexter. Here is what to know about the 2025 Atlantic hurricane names.

    Along with the new names, the National Hurricane Center will be making changes to to potential tropical cyclone (PTC) forecasts, issuing them up to 72 hours out, which is 24 hours greater than before.

    Here is a full breakdown of the changes you can expect to see this hurricane season.

    Learn More About Hurricanes


    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger

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  • Bay News 9 meteorologists to appear at hurricane expos ahead of storm season

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    BY

    Spectrum News Staff

    Tampa

    UPDATED 4:11 PM ET May. 01, 2025
    PUBLISHED 2:03 PM ET May 01, 2025
    PUBLISHED 2:03 PM EDT May 01, 2025

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • Bradenton dog trainer prepares home to take in dogs during a hurricane

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — In Manatee County, a dedicated dog trainer has taken her commitment to K9s even further when it comes to making preparations for hurricane season.

    Julie Madison has owned Top Tier K9 in Bradenton for two years. She boards and trains dogs and can also prepare them to be service or emotional support animals.

    She is also making sure her home is prepared for storm season.

    “This is actually now a hurricane-rated shed as well. So both the house and this building are rated for like 150 mile an hour winds,” she said.

    The upgrades to her home will allow her to take in more dogs this year during a storm.

    “I spent, probably, about $20,000 in upgrades to make sure everything would be secure and safe,” she said.

    During Hurricane Milton, 17 dogs stayed inside her home — including her own, her clients’, and 11 emergency take-ins.

    “During hurricanes, I take dogs on an emergency basis. No matter if you could have the most perfect dog, they’re still welcome here. Just because I know that not all places accept dogs when you’re traveling,” she said.

    Milton caused minor flooding at Madison’s home, and she was without power for nine days. But now she’s got backup.

    “I have the battery backup, which means now I will have power going forward. So the dogs will still have air conditioning, and I also have air conditioning,” she said.

    She’s added more solar panels, repaired her fence, and upgraded all the kennels to be storm-ready. She even invested in water storage.

    “These are two 350-gallon water containers. I need water for my dogs,” she said.

    “I just love saving lives on the dog end and on the person end. And if I can do that, and I can change as many lives positively as possible, that’s what I would like to do with the rest of the time I got,” she said.

    Julie’s on a mission — to help her four-legged companions and their owners.

    Julie says she can only house between 18 and 20 dogs total in her home, so the number of emergency take-ins is limited.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Manatee County ramps up canal cleanup ahead of storm season

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Last year’s storms did significant damage to Manatee County’s drainage system and canals.

    What You Need To Know

    • Manatee County is ramping up efforts to clean its drainage systems after last year’s storms heavily damaged local canals, initially allocating nearly $2 million for debris removal

    • Residents have expressed concerns about flooding, emphasizing the importance of debris removal for water flow and storm preparedness, with one local reporting significant flood damage from Hurricane Debby
    • According to county officials, with the success of this cleanup effort, they will be going back to county commissioners to request more funding

    County commissioners originally allocated nearly $2 million to clean debris from canals and drainage ways. County staff are now asking for more money to expand the project.

    Manatee County Deputy Director of Property Management Carmine DeMilio said the program has been very successful so far.

    “We’re in the air with drones. We’re in the water with boats, and we’re on the land with machines — and all three things, the trifecta alone — we’re accomplishing a lot more than we ever did,” he said.

    Manatee County has completed hundreds of work orders to remove debris from local canals. Residents who live nearby say it’s going to take this and more to be prepared for storm season.

    Brett Reeder sees the county’s efforts as a work in progress.

    “Every bit of that stuff is holding the water up,” he said. “The more we can get this creek to flow, the better opportunity we have to not flood nearly as much.”

    The Gamble Creek Canal that sits behind Reeder’s 30-acre property. He says overflow from the canal flooded his pasture during last year’s storms.

    The worst came during Hurricane Debby.

    “It rose between 6 and 9 o’clock, 26 inches,” he said. “Nobody was prepared for that amount of water that quick.”

    Manatee County has completed about 600 of the 745 stormwater maintenance work orders. Both county staff and contractors have removed debris from canals and drainage systems.

    Reeder said he’s glad the cleanup is happening ahead of storm season.

    He said Debby’s floodwaters last year killed several of his cows, flooded structures, and ruined some of his equipment.

    Despite the county’s work, Reeder says there’s still a lot of uncertainty.

    Each storm season is unpredictable, but he said this debris removal is a good start to help him feel prepared for what could come.

    According to county officials, with the success of this cleanup effort, they will be going back to county commissioners to request more funding.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Hurricane Milton by the numbers

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    TAMPA, Fla. — The National Hurricane Center released its final report on Hurricane Milton. Here are the final numbers from around Tampa Bay.

    What You Need To Know

    • Milton was one of the strongest hurricanes on record in the Atlantic basin

    • It had peak winds of 180 mph

    • Milton made landfall near Siesta Key on Oct. 9, 2024

    • More than 20 inches of rain fell in St. Petersburg
    • More Hurricane Milton stories

    MILTON STATS

    Milton was one of the strongest hurricanes on record in the Atlantic basin, reaching Category 5 intensity in the Gulf on Oct. 7, 2024 with peak winds 180 mph (155 kts).

    The pressure is estimated to have been 895 mb at the time of peak intensity. This ties Hurricane Rita of 2005 for the fourth-lowest minimum central pressure in the Atlantic basin. The lower central pressures include 882 mb in Wilma in 2005, 888 mb in Gilbert in 1988 and 892 mb in the Labor Day Hurricane of 1935.

    Milton made landfall near Siesta Key on Oct. 9, 2024 at 8:30 p.m. as a Category 3 hurricane with max winds of 115 mph.

    The NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI) estimates that Milton caused $34.3 billion in damage in the United States, almost exclusively in Florida.

    One prominent building damaged by the hurricane was Tropicana Field, where the fabric roof was ripped off by high winds followed by water damage from rain falling into the stadium.

    The report notes that the west coast most affected by Hurricane Milton had also been affected by Hurricane Helene two weeks before, which complicated damage assessments.

    In Florida, Milton caused hurricane conditions along the west coast from Clearwater Beach and Tampa southward across Sarasota to near Venice. Tropical storm conditions occurred elsewhere across the Florida Peninsula south of a Cedar Key – Fernandina Beach line, with hurricane-force wind gusts reported in central Florida near the track of the center.

    STORM SURGE

    Here are the storm surge numbers from Florida’s Gulf Coast.

    • 4-6 ft from Longboat key to Venice and near landfall location.
    • 1-2 feet Tampa Bay (a sharp gradient in the surge occurred north of the landfall location where the winds were mostly offshore)
    • 4–6 ft south of Boca Grande through Bonita Beach.
    • 5–8 ft in the northern portion of Charlotte Harbor and along the Peace River.
    • 6–9 ft from Venice southward to Boca Grande
    • An isolated peak of up to 10 ft estimated near Manasota Key, excluding the height of waves.

    There were destructive storm surge impacts to the Manasota Key beach front community and significant coastal erosion. A new inlet was opened termed Milton Pass. Survey crews concluded that the water was moving extremely fast and the wave action was tremendous, leading to ‘blowout’ of the first floor of many structures.

    The report notes that the same area had a significant storm surge from Hurricane Helene two weeks prior, and the erosion and debris from its aftermath compounded the damages incurred during Milton.

    WINDS

    Here are the top wind reports from Milton that were recorded over water:

    • Egmont Key 86/105 mph
    • Skyway Fishing Pier 73/102 mph
    • Sarasota-Bradenton Airport 69/102 mph
    • Middle Tampa Bay 74/98 mph
    • Egmont Channel 78/100 mph

    Here are the top wind reports from each county around Tampa Bay:

    • Manatee County: Peak wind gusts 80 to 100 mph, Sarasota-Bradenton Airport 102 mph wind gust
    • Pinellas County: Peak wind gusts 80 to 100 mph, St. Petersburg Albert Whitted Airport 101 mph wind gust
    • Hillsborough County: Peak wind gusts 80 to 100 mph, Tampa Airport 93 mph wind gust
    • Polk County: Peak wind gusts 80 to 90 mph, Winter Haven Airport 87 mph wind gust
    • Pasco County: Peak wind gusts 65 to 75 mph, Zephyrhills 59 mph wind gust
    • Hernando County: Peak wind gusts 60 to 70 mph, Brooksville 76 mph wind gust
    • Citrus County: Peak wind gusts 50 to 60 mph., Inverness 58 mph wind gust

    RAINFALL AND FLOODING

    Milton produced a large area of heavy rain across portions of the central and northern Florida Peninsula, including 10 to 20 inches of rain in Tampa Bay.

    The highest reported storm total rainfall was 20.40 inches at a Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network (CoCoRaHS) site near St. Petersburg.

    Here’s a collection of rainfall reports from the airports, CoCoRaHS, and other sites:

    • 20.40” St. Petersburg
    • 18.88” St. Petersburg Albert Whitted Airport
    • 18.82” near Westchase
    • 16.88” Largo
    • 15.66” Temple Terrace
    • 15.03” Pinellas Park
    • 14.94” Dade City
    • 14.15” Trilby
    • 14.73” Dover
    • 14.13” Zephyrhills
    • 13.68” Oldsmar
    • 13.62” Thonotosassa
    • 13.13” Lakeland Airport
    • 13.05” Plant City
    • 13.05” Bradenton
    • 12.78” Gulfport
    • 12.52” Clearwater
    • 12.32” Citrus Park
    • 11.91” Riverview
    • 11.73” Tampa Airport
    • 11.63” Safety Harbor
    • 11.40” Wesley Chapel
    • 11.10” Tarpon Springs
    • 10.44” Ruskin
    • 10.28” Auburndale
    • 9.67” Lithia
    • 9.46” Spring Hill
    • 9.07” Weeki Wachee
    • 9.02” Elfers
    • 8.15” Myakka Head
    • 7.74” Floral City
    • 7.58” Sarasota/Bradenton Airport
    • 7.51” Homosassa
    • 7.47” Wimauma
    • 7.31” New Port Richey
    • 7.17” Inverness
    • 6.49” Brooksville Airport
    • 6.48” Lecanto
    • 4.77” Holder
    • 4.60 Winter Haven Airport

    Here’s an interactive rainfall map from around Florida.


    These rains caused widespread river and urban flooding, particularly in Tampa Bay with record-high crests on the Hillsborough River: a crest of 38.16 feet at Morris Bridge on Oct. 12 and 17.14 feet near Zephyrhills at Hillsborough River State Park on Oct. 10.

    TORNADOES

    Milton caused a significant tornado outbreak over the southern and central portions of the Florida Peninsula on Oct. 9.

    • Milton caused a significant tornado outbreak over the southern and central portions of the Florida Peninsula on Oct. 9
    • 45 known tornadoes on land and a tornadic waterspout over Lake Okeechobee
    • The outbreak included 3 EF3 tornadoes, 6 EF2 tornadoes, 25 EF1 tornadoes, 7 EF0 tornadoes and 4 tornadoes of unknown intensity.
    • One of the EF3 tornadoes killed six people near Fort Pierce and Vero Beach.
    • There were 14 known injuries associated with the tornadoes.

    Here is an interactive map of the tornadoes produced by Hurricane Milton.


    IMPACTS

    Milton is currently known to be responsible for 15 direct deaths – 12 in the United States (all in Florida) and 3 in Mexico.

    • Six people died due to the tornado near Fort Pierce and Vero Beach.
    • Four people were killed by falling trees, while there were two deaths due to freshwater flooding.

    Milton caused 27 indirect deaths in the United States, all in Florida.

    Most of the deaths were due to health issues during storm preparations or post-storm clean-up or due to falls related to storm preparations, clean-up, or power failures.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Spectrum News Staff

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  • What to know about the 2025 Atlantic hurricane names

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    The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is just over a month away, and there is a list of new names to familiarize yourself with.

    This year will follow up on a busy 2024 season where there were five landfalling hurricanes, three of which have had their names retired.

    What You Need To Know

    • Forecasters started naming storms in 1950

    • The 2025 name list was last used in 2019

    • There is a list of supplemental names if more than 21 names are used


    Researchers at Colorado State University are calling for above normal activity again this year, you can read more about the 2025 Atlantic hurricane season outlook here.

    How and when are storms named?

    A storm gets named when it achieves tropical storm status (winds of 39 mph or higher). It becomes a hurricane when winds reach 74 mph, but keeps the same name. In meteorology, any tropical storm or greater is referred to as a tropical cyclone.

    The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) creates lists of names and cycles each list every six years. Each list contains 21 names, alternating between male and female names. A name may be retired if it is deemed too destructive by the WMO and they would add a new name to the list.

    Here is the list of names that will be used this year. It was last used 6 years ago, in 2019. Dexter is new this year, replacing Dorian after it was retired for causing significant destruction in the Bahamas, Southeast U.S. and eastern Canada.

    History of naming conventions

    According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), hundreds of years ago, tropical cyclones were named after Saint’s Day, which occurred nearest to the day of the storm. Consider, “Hurricane Santa Ana,” a violent storm that hit Puerto Rico on July 26, 1825.

    Before 1950, storms were noted by their latitude and longitude. This proved problematic when trying to relay information to the public. It was confusing, so meteorologists streamlined this process using the phonetic alphabet to name the storms (Able, Baker, Charlie, etc.). 

    Starting in 1953, storms were given female names. Rumor has it that a member of the committee was angry at his wife and wanted to name a storm after her. 

    Whether that’s true, Alice was the first named storm of the 1953 season. All-female names continued until 1979, when male names were added to alternate within the list.

    Greek names

    Prior to 2021, after the 21 names were exhausted, the Greek alphabet was used. 2005 and 2020 were the only two seasons to feature the Greek alphabet. 

    However, this proved difficult for several reasons, including what would happen after a storm was so destructive the name should be retired, as was the case for Eta and Iota in 2020. Additionally, coronavirus variants use Greek letters, adding to possible confusion.

    Supplemental list

    To account for these issues, the WMO created a supplemental names list. This list featured another 21 names from A to W that alternate male and female names. This list will remain the same each year, only swapping out a name if it is retired. 

    Hurricane preparedness kit

    Now is the time to reevaluate your hurricane preparedness kit. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, your kit should include, at a minimum: 

    • Water: one gallon per person, per day (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
    • Food: non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items (3-day supply for evacuation, 2-week supply for home).
    • Flashlight.
    • Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible).
    •  Extra batteries.
    • First aid kit.
    • Medications (7-day supply) and medical items.
    • Multi-purpose tool, like a Swiss Army knife. 
    • Sanitation and personal hygiene items.
    • Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies).
    • Cellphone with charger.
    • Family and emergency contact information.
    • Extra cash (ATMs might be inoperable).
    • Extra fuel for generator and car.

    Depending on your family’s requirements, you may need to include medical care items, baby supplies, pet supplies, and other things, such as extra car and house keys.

    Additional supplies might include towels, plastic sheeting, duct tape, scissors and work gloves.

    Our team of meteorologists dives deep into the science of weather and breaks down timely weather data and information. To view more weather and climate stories, check out our weather blogs section.

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    Meteorologist Reid Lybarger, Meteorologist Stacy Lynn

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  • Manatee County prioritizes hurricane affected residents

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    MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Each year, Manatee County pays for the rehabilitation of dozens of homes in unincorporated parts of the county and Palmetto.

    It’s part of the county’s State Housing Initiative Program (SHIP).

    What You Need To Know

    • Those who were affected by last year’s hurricanes will receive priority when determining who gets part of the $1.2 million in funds
    • The SHIP program is for low-income residents in Palmetto and unincorporated Manatee County who need housing rehabilitation and replacement help
    • Resident Patricia Hart was a past recipient of the SHIP program and she said it helped her greatly

    But this year, those who were affected by last year’s hurricanes will receive priority when determining who gets part of the $1.2 million in funds.

    “So, we address health and safety issues first, and then all code-related (issues). And then, we do the hurricane mitigation. So, we do windows, roofs, doors, any kind of additional strapping, trimming of trees — anything that would help mitigate a storm so people could safely shelter in place,” said Housing and Community Development Coordinator Deborah Ash.

    Resident Patricia Hart was a past recipient of the SHIP program and she said it helped her a lot.

    “I feel it was a blessing from God, I really do,” she said.

    Hart says this blessing could last her lifetime.

    “It happened at the best time—before the storm. It’s such a blessing. This doesn’t come around that often. For me, this is so special,” she said.

    Hart lived in her home for 22 years, but it was in need of some repairs. Help came from Manatee County’s State Housing Initiative Program. It’s for low- to very low-income residents in Palmetto and unincorporated Manatee County who need housing rehabilitation and replacement help.

    “They just did a wonderful job in here. Painted it. Did the floors. And the AC wasn’t coming through in here, and they patched it up. So now it’s cool in this room too. They redid my bathroom — the tile in there,” Hart said.

    She applied in 2023 and was approved. Over the course of nine months, everything on her list was completed and all finalized before Hurricane Debby impacted the area.

    “I didn’t have hurricane-proof doors,” she said.

    Now that she does, she says she feels safer in her home during a hurricane.

    “I stayed in here like a champ. I’m covered by the grace of God,” Hart said.

    But trying to cover the costs of her improvements — like a new driveway, fresh paint, and a new roof — just wasn’t in her budget.

    “I wasn’t making the money to do the repairs, so this was a big help to me, you know,” she said.

    Hart says the county’s help will protect her home for years to come.

    The deadline to apply for the SHIP program is April 7 at 5 p.m.

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    Julia Hazel

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  • Disaster Expo prepares Pasco community for future natural disasters

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    SHADY HILLS, Fla. — Every year in Pasco County, officials hold their disaster expo to help the community prepare for the upcoming hurricane season. 

    Organizers say this year takes on even more importance after 2024 was filled with hurricanes.

    Pasco County Emergency Management Director Andrew Fossa said when the weather got intense during the hurricanes in 2024, rescue crews had to use some special equipment to get to people.

    What You Need To Know

    • Pasco County held an annual disaster expo to prepare for hurricanes

    • Officials used the expo to showcase technologies like airboats and drones used in rescues

    • The emphasis is on the importance of being prepared and evacuating rather than risking safety


    “It flooded the golf course,” he said. “It started getting into their houses and they same in and they started plucking the residents out as fast as they could.”

    Fossa said they want to make sure those who live in the county are prepared for severe weather.

    From the Florida Wildlife Commission bringing in an airboat to the Sheriff’s Office showing off their drones, they want to give people a look into what it takes to get to those trapped in dangerous situations.

    “It’s better to be prepared and evacuate and nothing happened than say no, I can ride this out,” Fossa said.

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    Matt Lackritz

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  • Managing prolonged stress during hurricane recovery

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    ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The emotional stress of hurricane recovery can be prolonged, as the rebuilding process remains stagnant for many homeowners.

    Tips for coping with prolonged stress, according to Ellie Mental Health:

    • Shift mindset

    • Start with short-term goals; think creatively about solutions

    • Connect with community for support, resources

    • Consider professional support  


    Spectrum Bay News 9 checked back in with a homeowner on how she’s managing her emotions through it all. A mental health counselor also shares insight into ways to help people cope.

    Damage left behind by Hurricanes Helene and Milton has led to prolonged stress for many impacted homeowners.

    “Being intentional with your time and with your energy is really important through this because it can consume you,” said Amy Brooks, who has not seen progress in rebuilding her St. Petersburg home.

    Flooded during Helene, Brooks has been out of her house in the Riviera Bay neighborhood ever since.

    “It’s easy to get discouraged but prioritizing my mental health has become one of my most important things to do,” said Brooks.

    The 34-year-old said after six months of navigating the rebuild with FEMA and her insurance company, she’s still living in limbo. Part of prioritizing mental health for her meant packing up and taking a break.

    “I picked somewhere that had always been appealing to me. Nicholas Sparks wrote a lot of books in Wilmington, N.C. and they were based in that area. I had never seen it,” said Brooks of selecting a spot.

    For six weeks, Brooks immersed herself in the community.

    “Toured around all the spots where One Tree Hill was filmed and all the Nicholas Sparks movies, went to Southport where Safe Haven was filmed,” said Brooks. “I found a little yoga studio and I did yoga every single day. I kind of just put this on pause and I reset my mind and I saw new things.” 

    Reset to refresh is one healthy way to cope, says licensed clinical social worker Katie Planchard.

    “Really think ahead, don’t look behind but look ahead,” said Planchard, Clinic Director of Ellie Mental Health.

    Planchard says other coping skills include:

    • Shift your mindset
    • Set short-term goals
    • Think creatively about change
    • Connect with community for support and resources
    • Tap into what brings you joy
    • Consider professional support

    “Find those things on a daily basis that can help boost your mood, they don’t have to be big things, sometimes our best coping skills are the little things that we’re doing every single day that can make the biggest difference,” said Planchard.

    Brooks says resetting made a big difference, and she brought joy from her refresh back to Florida.

    “For me, being mindful and being able to meditate daily and just prioritize my mental health will at least help me get to the next step, whatever that may be,” said Brooks.

    She hopes the next steps include rebuilding her home to help preserve memories of her late mother.

    “My mom helped me get this house, so I’m not just going to let it go,” said Brooks of holding onto hope.

    “There’s a lot of power in just resetting your mind,” said Brooks.

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    Melissa Eichman

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  • Permitting problems persist for homeowners after storms

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    PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — The permitting process has been one of the biggest complaints when it comes to hurricane recovery.

    Some are still waiting on permits to be approved, while others don’t even know where they are in the process, or if their application has even been reviewed.

    What You Need To Know

    • Permitting is still a sore point for many when it comes to rebuilding after hurricanes Helene and Milton

    • Mark and Mary Anne Casci don’t quality for FEMA assistance and had to get their rental property reappraised to meet the 50/50 rule

    • The Cascis’ other home is at a standstill though, and they hope that getting it reappraised, it will meet the 50/50 rule



    If the bright peach house with the two-car garage just a block from the beach doesn’t catch your eye, Mark Casci says the view from inside of the row of permits taped on the front window of the home should.

    “We really had a celebration two weeks ago with our permit. In fact, I asked the people as we were going out if there’s a bell we could ring,” Casci said.

    He’s not ringing any bells just yet.

    “We did move all the electrical that had been submerged in water and elected to move it all up to four feet,” he said.

    There’s so much work still left to be done in the place his family has called their home away from home for the last 40 years.

    “Our daughter was two years old when we first bought the place at a time when we couldn’t afford to stay here. So, we had a motor home that we had pulled down in the yard and our kids really knew nothing else than Florida for vacations and we had both units rented,” Casci said.

    Pictures show how the front and the back units of their rental property were destroyed by storm surge from Hurricane Helene.

    Casci, and his wife Mary Anne, are snowbirds from Minnesota who don’t qualify for FEMA assistance. So, when they got that dreaded substantial damage letter that didn’t include the percentage of damage, they took matters into their own hands.

    “Fortunately, with our outside appraisal, we met the 50/50 rule and eventually got our permit, so not an issue in the long run, just initially a shock that we didn’t have that number of what the damage was,” he said.

    After months, hiring their own appraiser and sitting inside the building department for hours, waiting on answers, they got their permits from Madeira Beach. But the same can’t be said just a couple miles away at the home they planned to retire in on Redington Beach.

    That permitting process is at a standstill.

    Casci said they’ve flooded three times in five years at their waterfront Redington Beach home.

    “When we walked in here, in fact, the water line is gone now, but it was approximately at this level here,” he said. “Well, the furniture that was in here floated into another room.”

    He said they don’t think the information they have at the moment is correct.

    “As of now, this letter basically tells us, tear down or raise up,” he said.

    That’s not something the couple says they’re prepared to do, so they had this home appraised, too. They’re hoping it would bring them closer to a solution and under 50%. But so far, they haven’t heard anything, and it’s been months.

    “Give us the facts we need to make the decision,” he said.

    Redington Shores is handling the permitting process for Redington Beach and officials there say they can’t give an estimate about how long it will take for permits to be granted.

    For the Cascis, this means two homes and two very different possibilities for the future of their rental property and their dream home.

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    Saundra Weathers

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  • Iconic St. Pete Don CeSar hotel partially reopens six months after 2024 storms

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    ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. — After more than six months, the iconic Don CeSar Hotel is reopening on Wednesday in a limited capacity.

    Due to the amount of damage sustained during Hurricanes Helene and Milton in different parts of the 1920s Gatsby-Era building, the hotel’s management team decided to bring guests back with a phased reopening.

    What You Need To Know

    • Maritana Restaurant, Lobby Bar, spa, pool & beach access now open

    • Hotel reservations begin April 1

    • Work will continue to ballroom and remaining restaurants and shops

    • MORE: Don CeSar set for late March reopening


    Starting Wednesday, the Maritana Restaurant, spa, Lobby Bar, and access to the beach and pool along with poolside dining are available. On April 1, the hotel will begin taking room reservations.

    Management expects renovations to the newly designed ballroom, the remaining restaurants and bars, as well as the shopping boutiques to continue for the next several months.

    This is the first time the Don CeSar has been seriously damaged from a hurricane in its 97-year history. Built in the late 1920s, the hotel was bought by the U.S. Army in the 1940s and used as a sub-base hospital. After that, it fell into disrepair before it was bought and restored in the early 1970s.


    Since then, it’s been an icon of Pinellas County’s beach community. Charlie Justice of the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce says the Don CeSar opening is what the area needs right now.

    “It is a symbol that we are back and the beaches are ready to go,” he said. “It is an important symbol for all of our community and for all of Tampa Bay to say ‘please come visit and the doors are open for you.’”

    Work will continue in areas of the hotel through the fall.

    _

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    Angie Angers

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