We are following the latest updates across the greater Tampa Bay region:
Eta Makes Landfall
Tropical Storm Eta made landfall early Thursday morning, but not before producing dangerous storm surge and flooding streets across the greater Tampa Bay region.
Eta made landfall in Levy County, near Cedar Key, around 4 a.m. with top sustained winds of 50 mph after skirting the west coast of Florida throughout Tuesday into the overnight hours, according to the National Hurricane Center. [More on the storm]
Power Outages Across Tampa Bay
Several thousand residents were without power across the greater Tampa Bay region early Thursday morning.
As of 1 p.m., around 12,000 Duke Energy customers were still without power along with more than 2,200 TECO customers.
Duke officials say damage assessment is under way and repairs are under way where conditions are safe.
The storm will continue to produce periods of heavy rain and gusty winds, along with storm surge.
Tampa Bay Area Largely Spared
Rain continues to pour in some parts of the Tampa Bay area, even as Tropical Storm Eta exits Florida.
Eta made landfall near Cedar Key around 4 a.m. Thursday. The storm surge was 3 to 4 feet in many areas around Tampa Bay. Bay News 9 is reporting that water levels continue to be high due to an onshore wind this morning
The highest rainfall was recorded along the Gulf coast in Pinellas and Manatee counties, with some areas getting more than 7 inches.
Here's a look at some of the damage.
Airports Resuming Flights
Tampa International Airport reopened Thursday morning and has resumed all flights.
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport also reopened Thursday morning.
If you're supposed to fly Thursday, check with your airline for any possible delays or cancellations.
Schools Remain Closed
Schools in the greater Tampa Bay region are reacting to the effects of Tropical Storm Eta.
Pinellas, Citrus and Manatee counties announced they will resume classes on Friday.
The University of South Florida will conduct remote learning at all three campuses today. [More on school closures]
Roads Closures due to flooding or debris (as of Thursday morning)
Tampa
- Both directions of Bay to Bay Boulevard in Tampa at Westshore boulevard
- West Cypress Street at Reo Street
- There is standing water at Lamb Avenue near Westshore Boulevard and Schiller Street
- Tampa General Hospital at Plant Avenue
- Rome Avenue and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard
- Swann Avenue and Brevard avenue
