Ariel Plasencia
Ariel Plasencia joined FOX 13 in April 2023 and is excited to be reporting in the Sunshine State.
Ariel spent the last four years in Dallas, TX covering news, sports (yes, including the Cowboys), and traffic. From stories on TCU’s run in the College Football Playoff National Championship to issues with the power grid to all things barbecue, Ariel wore many (cowboy) hats during her time in the Lone Star State.
Before Texas, she worked as a reporter and anchor in North Carolina.
A Chicago native, Ariel grew up in cold, windy weather and studied math at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. She received her master’s degree in journalism at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
When she’s not working, Ariel enjoys watching her Chicago sports teams (go Cubs, Bears, Bulls & Blackhawks!) with her husband and dog.
The latest from Ariel Plasencia
Senator Rick Scott encourages hurricane preparedness
U.S. Senator Rick Scott encouraged Floridians to get hurricane ready Friday morning, speaking alongside emergency officials in Tampa.
Elderly Clearwater couple unable to leave condo after elevator breaks: 'We can't do anything'
An elderly couple says they can’t get out of their Clearwater condo for doctors’ appointments because a broken elevator.
U.S. Surgeon General warns parents about the impact of social media on teenager’s mental health
The U.S. Surgeon General wants parents to know that social media could hurt their teenagers' mental health.
USF $340 million football stadium moves one step closer to reality
The USF Bulls have taken the next big step toward the construction of their first-ever on-campus football stadium Tuesday.
St. Pete 4th grader’s drawing makes it to national ‘Doodle for Google’ contest
A St. Petersburg fourth grader won the Doodle for Google contest for the state of Florida, and now, people can vote for her drawing in the national contest.
Seffner driver concerned over 'popping' headrest in 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan
There have been no recalls about the defective headrest at this time, but the parent company of Dodge are aware of similar reports. Active head restraints are meant to deploy during a crash protect the head from whiplash.
Hillsborough emergency officials prepare hurricane shelters with two weeks until 2023 season
Hillsborough Emergency Management officials want residents to know that hurricane shelters should be a last resort. Bedding is not provided and pets are housed in separate places from their owners.
Hurricane season preps underway as National Hurricane Center releases first 7-day tropical weather outlook
The National Hurricane Center posted its first tropical weather outlook of the season this week: It also marks the organization’s first outlook that goes out seven days.
AdventHealth Tampa launches new OB-GYN residency program to address workforce issue in Bay Area
AdventHealth Tampa will soon have obstetrics and gynecology residents walking its halls, thanks to a brand-new residency program.
Fire at Grand Hyatt in Tampa forces guests to evacuate; 9 had minor injuries, officials say
It was a hectic morning for guests and staff at a Tampa hotel after they were forced to evacuate due to a fire.