Hurricane Helene, a fast-moving storm, is expected to make landfall on Florida’s northwestern coast as a major Category 3 hurricane. The storm threatens to bring damaging winds, heavy rains, and flash floods not only to Florida but also to parts of the southeastern U.S. Governors of Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas have declared emergencies in anticipation of the storm.
The National Weather Service in Tallahassee issued warnings of an “unsurvivable” storm surge of up to 20 feet in Florida’s Apalachee Bay, urging residents to take evacuation orders seriously. Many areas, including Wakulla County, have issued mandatory evacuation orders, while schools and universities along Florida’s Gulf Coast have cancelled classes.
Residents are preparing for the storm, with some stocking up on supplies and sheltering in place despite evacuation orders. Forecasters warn that while Helene is expected to weaken as it moves inland, its fast forward speed could still bring strong winds and flooding to the southeastern United States.
In addition to Hurricane Helene, Tropical Storm Isaac has formed in the Atlantic and may strengthen into a hurricane. Further west, former Hurricane John has reformed as a tropical storm, threatening areas of Mexico’s western coast. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts an above-average Atlantic hurricane season due to record-warm ocean temperatures.
The region is bracing for potentially catastrophic weather conditions, with federal authorities positioning resources for search-and-rescue operations and power restoration. Helene is one of the largest storms to hit the region in years, and residents are urged to take precautions and stay informed about the storm’s progress.
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