As Tropical Storm Helene intensifies in the Caribbean, the entire state of Florida is on high alert, with 61 counties now under a state of emergency. The storm, which formed just west of the Grand Cayman Islands, is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane as it approaches Florida’s Big Bend area by Thursday evening according to the NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER and
CENTRAL PACIFIC HURRICANE CENTER.
According to meteorologists, Helene is currently moving northwest and is projected to take a sharp northward turn towards Florida, intensifying as it does so. This expected path places a vast area from Tampa to beyond Atlanta, Georgia, at risk of severe weather conditions including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and significant storm surges.
Weather experts emphasize the enormity of Helene, highlighting its potential to cause impacts well beyond the typical storm paths indicated by forecast cones. “People often look at the cone as the impact area, but because this system is so big, it’s going to spread those strong winds well outside of the cone,” explained Jamie Rome, Deputy Director of the National Hurricane Center. The storm’s vast size means that tropical storm and hurricane watches are in effect across a broad area, with storm surges expected to push ocean water significantly inland.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has addressed the state, urging readiness and discussing the proactive measures being taken, such as the pre-fall emergency declaration requested from FEMA. “We are preparing for widespread impacts,” DeSantis stated, underscoring the serious nature of the threat.
Residents along the Gulf Coast and inland are advised to secure their properties and stay informed as updates come in. Community leaders and emergency services are working diligently to ensure safety measures are in place, including evacuation plans if necessary.
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As Helene continues its journey through the Gulf of Mexico, its progression is being closely monitored. Meteorologist Pton Malone from WWL Plus advises, “If you have travel plans to Florida on Thursday, it’s not a good idea. While the worst should be gone by Thursday night and Friday looks good across South Florida, significant lingering impacts such as power outages and downed trees could affect areas up towards Gainesville and Tallahassee.”
For those further afield, the impacts of Helene could extend into Southern Georgia with strong winds likely to persist into Friday. As the community braces for Helene, the message is clear: prepare diligently and stay vigilant.