Tampa, FL – A hazardous materials response at Port Tampa Bay prompted officials to temporarily order Harbor Island residents to remain inside.
Tampa Fire Rescue responded at approximately 8:15 p.m. Friday to a fire at Gulf Sulphur Services within the port complex.
Authorities said the fire affected a storage tank and released hydrogen sulfide, a colorless gas that can irritate the eyes and respiratory system. The incident brought firefighters, hazardous materials specialists and marine units to the area.
Officials issued a shelter-in-place order for Harbor Island while emergency crews evaluated air conditions and contained the fire. Residents were advised to remain indoors, close doors and windows and turn off air-conditioning systems drawing outdoor air into buildings.
The precautionary order remained active while hazmat crews monitored the surrounding area. Officials later determined conditions no longer posed a threat and lifted the directive.
No injuries were reported, and authorities did not announce any evacuations.
Sparkman Channel was temporarily closed to recreational boat traffic while crews operated near the port. Firefighters remained at the facility overnight to monitor conditions and confirm the incident was contained. The channel reopened to all marine traffic Saturday morning.
Port Tampa Bay personnel, Tampa Police Department marine officers, Hillsborough County sheriff’s deputies and the U.S. Coast Guard assisted Tampa Fire Rescue.
Officials did not immediately release the amount of hydrogen sulfide discharged or an estimate of damage to the tank.
The fire’s cause remained under investigation. Authorities reported no evidence of criminal activity, announced no arrests and identified no suspects. Emergency officials continued monitoring the port Saturday after lifting the residential and marine restrictions.