The Tampa Bay region is bracing for what looks like a direct hit from Hurricane Irma.
The storm will likely be a Category 3 when it hits the Tampa Bay area, which is under hurricane and storm surge warnings, WFLA reports. Evacuation orders had been called for the susceptible areas in Hillsborough and Pinellas counties by noon on Saturday.
Statewide, 5.6 million people have been ordered to leave, filling up hotel rooms throughout Georgia and Alabama.
Tampa International Airport will cease operations…