This just in from Hillsborough County:

The Hillsborough County Emergency Policy Group met today to consider whether a state of emergency should be declared for Tropical Storm Debby.

The group decided not to make the declaration at this time, but will closely monitor the storm for any new developments, and reassess in the morning if they need to meet again.

However, elected officials emphasized that all available resources will be used to assist and protect its citizens.

The Emergency Policy Group is the official local governmental body that can declare states of emergency, order evacuations, and give over powers that pertain to emergency management situations.  The Hillsborough County Emergency Policy Group is comprised of three County Commissioners, the mayors from the cities of Plant City, Tampa and Temple Terrace, and the Sheriff.

Citizens can call 813-272-6900 from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. to report problems or request additional information.

Florida Gov. Rick Scott, however, has declared a state of emergency and nearby Pasco County has done the same on the local level.

Tropical storm warnings remain in effect for the entire Tampa Bay area as Debby continues to churn in the Gulf.

Stay with Patch for updates as they become available.