TAMPA, Fla. -- Sandbag locations around the Tampa Bay area have opened ahead of Hurricane Michael.

The storm is expected to strengthen once it reaches the Gulf of Mexico.

Residents wanting to protect their property from possible flooding can get sandbags at these locations:

Pasco County

*Locations will be open 24 hours a day until further notice

Hudson – Fire Station #17, 2951 Seven Springs Boulevard

New Port Richey – Veterans Memorial Park, 14333 Hicks Road

New Port Richey – Magnolia Golf Course Clubhouse, 7223 Massachusetts Ave.

San Antonio – C Barn, 30908 Warder Road

This story will be updated if other counties and cities announce sandbag locations.