Where to find sandbags in the Tampa Bay area ahead of expected tropical system

As forecasters watch a tropical system that could strengthen in the Gulf of Mexico over the weekend, some local governments in the Tampa Bay area started offering sandbags on Friday. Officials note that while sandbags can be an effective tool to prevent minor water intrusion, they do not stop storm surge or major flooding. This story will be updated as more governments offer sandbags. Here’s what to know: The city of Tampa opened three sandbag sites on Friday. Seniors and people with special needs will have priority Friday morning to...