TAMPA, Florida. – Tampa International Airport will suspend operations Thursday as Florida continues to prepare for Hurricane Helene.

Officials said all commercial and cargo flights would be suspended starting at 2 a.m. Thursday. The airport, including the main terminal and airport areas, would be closed to the public during the storm and would not be equipped to shelter people or vehicles.

Hurricane Helene: County Guide

The airport is expected to remain closed to the public until it can be assessed for damage after the storm passes through the Tampa Bay area. It is expected to reopen on Friday after the damage assessment is completed.

Officials from TPA and its partners will prepare the airfield prior to suspension to secure jetways, ground equipment and any remaining aircraft before the storm arrives.

The three other airports managed by the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority, including Peter O. Knight, Tampa Executive and Plant City Airports, will also close at 2 a.m. Thursday.

MORE: Hurricane Helene: The following is closed in the Bay Area

Travelers are advised to check with their airline for the latest flight information and to pay close attention to the weather.

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