TPA tracking tropical system headed into Gulf of Mexico this week

Tampa International Airport officials are closely monitoring a tropical disturbance developing in the western Caribbean Sea that is expected to affect Florida's Gulf Coast later this week.

The National Hurricane Center is predicting the depression to strengthen into a named storm as it moves into the Gulf of Mexico, with landfall predicted as a potential hurricane somewhere between Alabama and Tampa Bay by Thursday or Friday. The next name on the 2024 storm list would be Helene. For the latest information and forecast, go to the NHC advisory website here: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/

The Airport is working with the National Weather Service to determine potential impacts from the advancing system, including the potential for heavy rain, high winds and storm surge. TPA officials will announce any preparations that may impact flight operations as the possible path of the system comes into better focus. The Airport is currently open and operating normally.

People with travel plans in and out of TPA later this week should watch for updates. Some tips for travelers:

Please contact your airline for the latest flight information. TPA will announce if flight operations are affected by the storm, but airlines are responsible for their schedules.

Monitor the weather closely. Please stay up to date on forecasts for your area and any regions to which you may be traveling to or from.

Follow TPA social media for the latest updates. Our account on X (formerly Twitter), @FlyTPA, will be the place to find the most recent updates.