TAMPA — A shelter-in-place order issued for Harbor Island was lifted Friday evening after firefighters responded to a hazardous materials incident at Port Tampa Bay.
Tampa Fire Rescue was initially dispatched to a reported structure fire after heavy smoke was observed in the area on September 18, 2026.
After evaluating the scene, crews determined that a fire at Gulf Sulphur caused hydrogen sulfide to be released from a tank. Hydrogen sulfide is a respiratory irritant known for its strong, pungent odor.
As a precaution, officials closed Sparkman Channel to all traffic and placed Harbor Island under a shelter-in-place order beginning at 7:42 p.m. The order was lifted at 8:51 p.m.
The fire was brought under control, but Sparkman Channel remained closed to recreational vessels while firefighters continued working at the scene.
Tampa Fire Rescue said crews would remain at the facility until the hazardous materials incident was fully mitigated. The investigation continues.
