HCSO arrests four in $300,000 retail theft operation

Four people have been arrested in connection with an organized retail theft operation targeting businesses across the Tampa Bay area. Investigators recovered nearly $300,000 in stolen merchandise, along with drugs, firearms and cash during a search of the suspect's residence.

HCSO arrests 2 in separate fentanyl overdose death investigations

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister announced two arrests in separate fentanyl overdose death investigations, warning that counterfeit pills can contain lethal amounts of the drug.

UPDATE: NHC tracking 2 Atlantic disturbances, one with 70% chance of formation

Two tropical disturbances are being monitored in the Atlantic, with one system showing a 70% chance of tropical cyclone formation over the next seven days.

Three suspects arrested in Tampa hotel armed robbery

Three suspects have been arrested in connection with an armed robbery at a Tampa hotel after investigators said the victim was robbed at gunpoint.

Driver accused in fatal hit-and-run turns herself in

Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office arrested a woman accused of leaving the scene of a fatal hit-and-run that killed an 82-year-old pedestrian.

Tampa ranks among top U.S. cities expected to see pest increase in 2026

A warmer-than-average winter could lead to increased pest activity across Tampa Bay, with experts warning residents to prepare for rising mosquito, ant and other insect populations.

Four rehabilitated green sea turtles return to Atlantic Ocean

Four juvenile green sea turtles returned to the Atlantic Ocean after months of rehabilitation at The Florida Aquarium, including one turtle that survived a severe wound.

ZooTampa introduces acupuncture therapy to help animals heal and recover

ZooTampa has introduced acupuncture therapy as part of its veterinary care, helping animals with complex medical conditions heal, recover and improve their quality of life.

Beyond hurricanes: Tampa Bay residents urged to prepare for rainy season flooding and mold risks

Hurricane season may be quiet, but Florida’s rainy season can still bring serious risks for Tampa Bay homeowners and renters. From flooding to water damage and mold growth, experts are urging residents to prepare before small problems become costly repairs.

City of Tampa to repave 1.8 miles of New Tampa Boulevard

Around 12,000 drivers use New Tampa Boulevard each day. The City of Tampa will begin a $1 million project to repave 1.8 miles of the roadway, with overnight construction expected to last up to eight weeks.

Flock cameras spark debate over public safety and privacy in Tampa Bay

Flock cameras are becoming more common across Tampa Bay, sparking a debate between law enforcement’s public safety goals and residents’ concerns over privacy and surveillance.

Child Safety Awareness Month highlights back-to-school safety for Florida drivers

August is Child Safety Awareness Month, and Florida officials are reminding drivers, parents and caregivers to stay alert and take safety precautions as students return to school.

Guide to celebrating 813 Day across Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay is celebrating 813 Day on Aug. 13 with special events, local activities, food and drink specials, and discounts at businesses across the area.

What to do in Tampa Bay this weekend: Aug. 14- Aug. 16 event guide

Looking for weekend plans in Tampa Bay? Here's a roundup of events happening across the region from Aug. 14- Aug. 16.

Best Tampa Bay restaurants locals love: Reader picks

We asked Tampa Bay readers to share their favorite local restaurants, and you delivered. From waterfront seafood spots to barbecue joints and pizza favorites, discover the restaurants locals recommend across the region.

What to do in Tampa Bay this weekend: Aug. 7- Aug. 9 event guide

Looking for weekend plans in Tampa Bay? Here's a roundup of events happening across the region from Aug. 7- Aug. 9.

What to do in Tampa Bay this weekend: July 31-Aug. 2 events guide

Looking for weekend plans in Tampa Bay? Here's a roundup of events happening across the region from July 31-Aug. 2.

5 highly rated pest control companies in Tampa Bay for 2026

Pest problems can be a year-round challenge for Tampa Bay residents. From termites and rodents to mosquitoes and other common household pests, the Tampa Bay Observer rounded up five highly rated local pest control companies based on Google reviews and star ratings as of July 2026.

ONE Tampa tops out as downtown’s tallest residential tower at 42 stories

A new landmark is taking shape in downtown Tampa. ONE Tampa has topped out at 42 stories, marking a major milestone for the city’s largest residential tower.

Tampa-based RankScore reaches 5,000 clients, earns SEO software award

Tampa-based RankScore has reached 5,000 clients and was named SoftDesk’s Best SEO Software of Summer 2026. Learn about RankScore, Artemis and RankScore reviews.

New luxury residential tower proposed for Water Street Tampa expansion

Strategic Property Partners has submitted plans for a 400-foot luxury residential tower in Water Street Tampa featuring 452 homes, ground-floor retail and resort-style amenities, with construction expected to begin in 2027.

The Westin Tampa Bay opens new waterfront pool

The Westin Tampa Bay has opened a new waterfront resort-style pool featuring an 8-foot waterfall wall, bayfront views and poolside dining as part of the hotel's ongoing transformation.

Ziki’s Greek Street Food set to open at Sparkman Wharf this July

Sparkman Wharf is adding a new locally owned dining concept called Ziki’s Greek Street Food. The restaurant is set to have a soft opening in July.

[solidcore] announces new fitness studio coming to Water Street Tampa

National fitness brand [solidcore] is expanding its Tampa Bay presence with a new studio planned for Water Street Tampa in fall 2026.

National blood supply crisis declared as Jersey College hosts Tampa blood drive

The American Red Cross has declared a national blood supply crisis as donations fall to a four-year summer low. Jersey College's Tampa campus will host a blood drive Aug. 4 to help meet the need.

‘If you have lungs, you can get lung cancer’: Tampa survivor shares her story on World Lung Cancer Day

After an unexpected discovery led to a lung cancer diagnosis, Tampa resident Shelly Glenn is using her experience to remind others that anyone with lungs can be at risk.

Tampa General becomes first hospital in nation to sign healthy food pledge

Tampa General Hospital is the first hospital in the nation to sign the Make Hospital Food Healthy Again pledge, reinforcing its commitment to using nutritious, whole-food meals as part of patient care and recovery.

Florida reports 35 cases of cyclosporiasis, including five in Tampa Bay

The Florida Department of Health has confirmed 35 cases of cyclosporiasis this season, including five in the Tampa Bay area. The CDC says the parasitic illness is commonly spread through contaminated food or water.

BayCare offers free monthly wellness screenings in Plant City

Residents can receive free health screenings, including blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose checks, on the first Tuesday of each month.

Tampa General Hospital expands behavioral health services with new mental health treatment program

TGH Behavioral Health Hospital has launched a new Partial Hospitalization Program designed to provide intensive mental health care for patients who need more support between inpatient and traditional outpatient treatment.

Avelo Airlines to launch two nonstop destinations from Tampa International Airport

Avelo Airlines will launch new nonstop service from Tampa International Airport to North Texas and the Charlotte, North Carolina, area this November.

Breeze Airways soars into its fifth year at Tampa International Airport

Breeze Airways is celebrating five years at Tampa International Airport after growing from one route to 37 nonstop destinations and expanding international service across the Caribbean and Latin America.

Tampa Cruise Port Parking 2026: Every Option, Price, and Shuttle Compared

Compare every parking option at Port Tampa Bay for 2026: official rates, third-party lots, and hotel packages.

Tampa travelers gain new nonstop getaways to St. Thomas and Cancun this winter

New nonstop flights from Tampa International Airport to St. Thomas and Cancun will launch this December through Breeze Airways.

Spirit Airlines shuts down operations; Frontier offers 'rescue fares'

Spirit Airlines has begun an immediate wind-down of operations, canceling all flights. Frontier Airlines is offering a "rescue fare" discount for Spirit guests looking for new flights.

Pinellas County Beaches Cleared for Swimming After Bacterial Contamination Advisory