This morning it was just Pasco County, but as of 1:30 p.m. on June 25, New Tampa and Wesley Chapel join the entire state of Florida in a State of Emergency due to the looming tropical storm in the Gulf. 

According to a press release from the State of Florida Division of Emergency Management, after a briefing from the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) this morning, Governor Rick Scott signed Executive Order 12-140, declaring a Level One State of Emergency Florida. This is the lowest level of emergency, but it still activates the SEOC in all 67 counties, including Hillsborough and Pasco. 

“This executive order allows the State Emergency Response Team to quickly and effectively coordinate the response and ensure needed resources are available,” says Gov. Scott. “Florida's residents and guests should stay informed of the progress of Tropical Storm Debby and heed all instructions from local officials to keep their family, friends and businesses safe." 

In a Level One emergency, state agencies are required to assist local governments with any assistance that may be needed. Since Tropical Storm Debby is moving slowly through the Gulf, the State needs to stay prepared for anything the storm throws our way.