Sandbags

There's no reason to panic, but some municipalities are opening sandbag sites just in case there's flooding in low-lying areas. Unused sandbags can be stored for future storms.

County officials said it's important to get the sandbags long before a tropical storm is on the radar so you get enough and have time to prepare.

Residents of Pinellas and Sarasota counties will be able to fill as many as 10 sandbags at a number of locations in the next few days.

The system is expected to move east or northeast and strengthen as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico. Those along the Gulf Coast and the Florida Keys should monitor its progress, forecasters said.

On Tuesday, thousands of people came to fill and collect 10 each. Some got them to guard homes they still can't live in due to August floods.

Gov. DeSantis issued a state of emergency for 41 counties, including several in the Tampa Bay area, ahead of what could become a major hurricane.

They're open Saturday at various locations.

Hillsborough County officials offer some tips on how to properly use sandbags and generators in the event of a hurricane.

Severe weather is expected to move across the state on Tuesday ahead of a cold front.

It's not safe to keep sandbags that came in contact with floodwater, but officials encourage residents to reuse ones that did not.

Sandbags are most likely going to benefit residents living in flood-prone areas, and even then the county allotment of 10 bags will only protect one or two doorways. Officials are encouraging those who don't really need them to leave the supply for others.

Governor Ron DeSantis signed an Executive Order Monday expanding the state of emergency to 46 Florida counties, including the entire greater Tampa Bay region.