State Officials Brace for Isaac's Effect on Republican National Convention
Thursday, August 23, 2012
By: Nicole Creston

August 23, 2012 | WMFE - No one exactly knows how Tropical Storm Isaac will impact Florida, but officials are preparing for the worst. State leaders are bracing for the possibility of a major hurricane bearing down on Tampa Bay during the Republican National Convention.

Florida Governor Rick Scott says he hopes Isaac’s impact will be minimal, but the state is keeping in close contact with Republican Party officials. Scott says they’re communicating about the storm’s potential threat and whether the convention will be delayed or cancelled.

“This is the convention’s decision but they will work with the city, they will work with the county, they will work with the state,” says Scott. “And with having these briefings, everyone will have the same information, so I don’t think we will have any confusion.”

The Republican National Convention is slated to be held in a low-lying area near the water in downtown Tampa. Between 50,000 and 70,000 visitors are expected.

Scott says state and convention officials are ready to respond to “all types of disasters, but right now, there is not anticipation there will be a cancellation.”

Scott is urging everyone, including visitors, to be ready with a plan and enough supplies to last at least 72 hours. He says the storm’s path is still uncertain, so residents across the state should be prepared, just in case.

You can see the latest updates at the National Hurricane Center here.