TAMPA, Fla. – Tampa residents have a lot of new updates to track before the next big storm hits, starting with major changes to local evacuation zones. To help the community get up to speed, Tampa Fire Rescue is hosting a free Hurricane Preparedness Expo this Saturday, May 30, 2026.
The family-friendly event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Cordelia B. Hunt Community Center, located at 4810 N. Himes Ave.
Attendees can speak directly with local meteorologists, emergency management professionals, first responders, and various city departments. The experts will offer guidance on evacuation planning, assembling emergency kits, storm preparedness, and navigating recovery resources.
A major highlight of the event is the premiere of the City of Tampa Hurricane Preparedness Guide. This marks the first time the city has released a guide created specifically for its residents, packed with localized safety tips and resources for before, during, and after a storm.
Families can also pick up free sandbags at the expo to help protect their homes. There is a limit of 10 sandbags per family, available while supplies last. To qualify, residents must show a valid ID proving they live within the City of Tampa.
Because evacuation zones in both Tampa and Hillsborough County have recently been expanded and updated, officials emphasize that checking your current zone status should be a priority.
“The best time to prepare for hurricane season is before a storm is in the forecast,” said Fire Chief and Emergency Manager Barbara Tripp. “This expo gives residents access to trusted information, local experts, and practical tools to help them protect themselves, their families, and their homes.”
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