As forecasters watch a tropical disturbance that could become a major hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico, some local governments in the Tampa Bay area started offering sandbags Monday. Officials note that while sandbags can be an effective tool to prevent minor water intrusion,

As Potential Tropical Cyclone Nine gets organized in the Caribbean, Tampa Bay officials are helping residents prepare for potential impacts from a hurricane.

Tampa Bay meteorologists say there is already a slight risk for increased rain in the region starting Tuesday, and potential flooding, tornadoes and storm surge in the region may be a risk by Thursday.

Sand bags are available for residents across Northwest Florida ahead of a potential storm later this week.Escambia CountyBaars Field Athletic Park - 13001 Sorre