Hurricane kit: What to pack ahead of Helene

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — As Hurricane Helene makes its way toward Florida, now is the time to prepare your hurricane kit.

Aside from the obvious items such as water and canned food items to stock up on, WFLA.com has compiled a list of things that are crucial to have in your home ahead of the storm.

• Water (one gallon per person, per day)
• Food (non-perishable, easy to prepare)
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Medications (7-day supply)
• Multi-purpose tool, like a Swiis Army knife
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items
• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)
• Cell phone with charger
• Family and emergency contact information
• Extra cash (ATMs might be down)
• Extra fuel for generator and car

According to the National Hurricane Center, Helene is expected to impact Florida as a major Category 3 Hurricane on Thursday afternoon.

There are several mandatory evacuations already issued across Tampa Bay area counties. Find your evacuation zone here .

Sandbag sites are also open around the area. Find one in your neck of the woods here .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.