Hurricane Helene has compelled thousands of Floridians to evacuate, as officials brace for what could be the most formidable storm to impact the U.S. in over a year . As Helene rapidly intensifies in the Caribbean Sea, hurricane warnings have been issued for both Florida and Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula . The forecast indicates that the storm will reach Florida's Gulf Coast by Thursday, raising concerns about severe rainfall and wind damage. In response to this imminent threat, President Biden has declared a state of emergency to facilitate federal assistance and support local emergency services.
Helene formed in the northwestern Caribbean Sea Tuesday morning and will set off on a breakneck pace of strengthening. It could take Helene just 48 hours to go from a 45 mph tropical storm to a Category 3 major hurricane as it rapidly intensifies over the extremely warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
Anclote River to Mexico Beach, according to the National Hurricane Center’s 11 p.m. ETadvisory. The Mexican government has also issued a hurricane warning from Cabo Catoche to Tulum.
The storm, which formed in the northwestern Caribbean Sea Tuesday morning, is strengthening at a breakneck pace. It could take Helene just 48 hours to go from a 45 mph tropical storm to a Category 3 major hurricane as it rapidly intensifies over the extremely warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. As of 11 p.m. ET, Helene’s maximum sustained winds had increased to 60 mph with higher gusts, the center said.
Because the system is moving quickly, rainfall totals won’t be as significant. 4-6 inches of rain widespread near the coast and 2-3 inches inland. Some locally heavy spots are possible.
Mexico along the coast and into the bays and inlets. Coastal flooding is likely to be higher than with Hurricane Idalia last year.
Evacuation orders have been enacted across multiple counties in northwestern Florida, with schools also closing or modifying their schedules to ensure safety. The urgency of these measures underscores the necessity for preparedness when confronting natural disasters. As residents evacuate and prepare for potential impacts from Hurricane Helene, it is crucial for local authorities and federal agencies to coordinate effectively in order to mitigate risks and ensure public safety during this challenging time.
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