The National Hurricane Center has issued a warning that Hurricane Helene "will become quite large and powerful before making landfall," predicting that it will hit Florida with significant force. "Conditions appear highly favorable for strengthening over the eastern Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday and Thursday," they noted in a statement tracking the storm, which has already put regions in countries like Cuba and Mexico on high alert.
Hurricane specialist Lisa Bucci urged people not to be deceived by the current size of the hurricane. "We expect it to intensify rapidly," she told Telemundo. She also emphasized that residents in monitored and warned areas should be ready for potential power outages and have enough food and water for at least three days.
Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Expected
In the southeastern United States, Helene is projected to bring total rainfall accumulations of 4 to 8 inches, with isolated totals around 12 inches. This rainfall is likely to result in considerable flash and urban flooding, with minor to moderate flooding in rivers and possible isolated major river flooding, according to a report by wapatv.
On Monday, Governor Ron DeSantis issued Executive Order 24-208, declaring a state of emergency in 41 counties in Florida that could face impacts from the storm and instructing agencies to prepare as necessary. This order excludes the southeastern part of the state, leaving out the counties of Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, and Broward.
Storm Surge Threatens Coastal Areas
A map from the National Hurricane Center shows that Helene will move north through the Panhandle region on Thursday night. Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, lies in the center of the projected path. The forecast also indicates that many areas will experience dangerous storm surges, particularly between Panama City and Tampa.
The coast stretching from the Ochlockonee River to Chassahowitzka could see water levels rise between 10 and 15 feet. Nearby areas might experience 5 to 10 feet of water, and the Tampa Bay area is expected to face storm surges ranging from 5 to 8 feet, according to CBS News.