As dawn approached Friday morning, many around Tampa Bay awaited help as search and rescue teams worked to pull people from water-logged homes. The storm unleashed record storm surge, with communities from the beaches to St.

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — First responders across Tampa Bay began rescue efforts following Hurricane Helene’s landfall overnight. Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said crews have been busy responding to emergency calls, mainly focused on Davis Island, receiving nearly 200 calls since 2 a.m.

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge is closed due to high wind as Hurricane Helene impacts the Tampa Bay area. At 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, the Florida Highway Patrol said wind gusts had reached 60 miles per hour at the Skyway and closed the bridge to traffic. Authorities usually shut down the four-mile bridge when wind speeds hit 40 mph.