Denis Phillips’ Take On The “Orange Blob’s” Florida Impact

We're still in the early stages of recovering from Helene along the coast here in Tampa Bay. So when Denis Phillips talked with us last week about ANOTHER system that was on the way just as Helene passed to our north, it wasn't welcome news. But there's better news now.

Denis says the National Hurricane Center still has the chances for development for this newest "orange blob" at 40%. But there's better news. This doesn't look like it's going to turn into a hurricane. It might not even reach tropical storm status. Denis says he thinks it will head towards Florida... but it should be "mostly a rain event." We've had enough water around here. But we know it could be much worse.

Some of the models do forecast this to become a tropical storm... but it'd probably be a pretty weak one, says Denis. As for the timing of when this would impact us in Florida? The wet weather from the orange blob (I love that, sounds much less problematic than tropical storm... or that dreaded H word) would probably arrive between Sunday and Tuesday.

Now that a few days have passed since Helene, Denis says he has more confidence in this track and forecast of this next system in the gulf. But stay tuned because this is Florida and these systems can change course and intensity. And yeah yeah, as Denis always says... remember Rule #7. Don't freak out. Sounds like there's little reason to do that this time anyway.

As for the rest of this week in the Tampa area, the weather remains muggy and we have those chances of a passing downpour. The good news is next week we might see a bit of a cool off. Temperatures starting Sunday shouldn't go much higher than 80.

If there's one thing people in Florida are used to, it's school canceling for hurricane days! If you live up north, your little ones might be doing the same thing but for snow days. Either way being locked in the house can take a toll on everyone and boredom might set in. A major hurricane could make you feel anxious or stressed. If you have little kids it's great time to have multiple options to distract everyone. Whether you have power or not these options will work for you!

When hunkering down parents should also focus on how to entertain their kids during the storm to pass the time. Having lots of different things to do can make them feel creative and less stressed about a hurricane that's coming. Arts and crafts are a great way to put them to work and use their minds while being creative at the same time. The last thing you want to hear during a hurricane is "I'm Bored" every two minutes. That's why we've put together a list of options so you can keep the kids having fun, being creative and out of your hair. Big storms are stressful enough on parents the last thing you need is the little ones driving you nuts.

Normally, going outside would be an option on this list during a hurricane you might not want to risk going on a walk. You never know when the weather can change quickly and it could become dangerous. Sometimes you don't know if you'll be trapped inside for two days or more and losing power could be happen as well. So, if you're looking for activities to hold over the kids until the storm passes? Here are some ideas! Scroll down for 7 activities the kids will love while stuck in the house during a hurricane.

Get all your blankets and pillows together! It's time to put together a fort with the help of the entire family. You can make them big or small but either way it's a lot of fun and don't forget the flash lights.

You could have a crafting contest to see who creates the best animal. Or set and timer and see who can color the fastest while staying in the lines. Either way creating artwork is always fun and passes by the time.

The perfect way to get out some of the extra energy with the kids. It can be tough sitting around the house with nothing to do. But if you still have power or a battery-operated radio a dance party is the best!

Who doesn't love story time? Pick out everyone favorite book and enjoy a good story out-loud. Or better yet, open a new book and take everyone through a new adventure.

You probably have a bunch of games sitting around the house you rarely use. Time to take them out and enjoy some fun playing a fun game!

Bring out a sleeping bag, bring it into the living room for a fun movie! If you don't have power, you can always teach the kiddos some yoga moves and see if they can copy you. Even slow stretching can be fun and a good healthy way to waste some time.

This is specifically for animal lovers. If you have a cat or dog they might be scared during the storm. Let the kids help create a safe nice cozy place for them to cuddle up. Maybe even a good brushing and petting could help calm their nerves.