Hurricane Helene is gaining strength as it approaches the Florida Big Bend. Satellite images show a large, well-defined eye with convective banding wrapping around it. Data from Hurricane Hunter aircraft indicates an almost completely closed eyewall, and the minimum pressure has dropped to near 960 MB.
The storm’s initial intensity is now estimated at 90 kt (105 mph), and tropical-storm-force winds are already affecting parts of South Florida and the Florida Keys.
Read: AccuWeather: Helene Poses Extreme Risk To Lives In Florida, Georgia, Tennessee And Carolina’s
Helene is accelerating and turning slightly north-northeastward. It is expected to make landfall in the Florida Big Bend region this evening as a major hurricane, then track over Georgia and slow down or stall over the Tennessee Valley.
Significant intensification is likely before landfall, with some models predicting it could reach Category 4 status. Residents in the hurricane warning area should rush to complete preparations.
Helene is a very large hurricane, meaning its impacts will extend far from the center. Storm surge, wind, and rainfall will be felt well outside the forecast cone, particularly on the east side. Strong winds will also penetrate far inland, including over the southern Appalachians.
Read: Mandatory Evacuations Ordered In Pasco County Zone A; Residents Urged To Seek Safety
Key Points:
- Rapid Intensification: Helene has strengthened to a Category 2 hurricane and is expected to continue intensifying before landfall, potentially reaching Category 4.
- Catastrophic Storm Surge: A life-threatening storm surge of up to 20 feet is possible along portions of the Florida Big Bend coast, with destructive waves.
- Destructive Winds: Hurricane-force winds are expected within the eyewall, extending well inland over northern Florida and southern Georgia. Strong wind gusts are also likely farther north.
- Catastrophic Flooding: Life-threatening flash and urban flooding, along with landslides, are expected across parts of the southern Appalachians. Significant flooding is also likely in northwestern and northern Florida and the Southeast.
Urgent Message:
Residents in the hurricane warning area should rush to complete preparations. Evacuate if instructed by local officials. Helene is a very large hurricane, and impacts will extend far from the center.
Forecast Track:
Helene is moving north-northeastward and is expected to make landfall in the Florida Big Bend region this evening. It will then track over Georgia and slow down or stall over the Tennessee Valley.
Key Impacts:
- Catastrophic Storm Surge: A life-threatening storm surge, potentially reaching 20 feet above ground level, is expected along parts of the Florida Big Bend coast, with destructive waves. Residents should heed evacuation orders.
- Catastrophic Winds: Hurricane-force winds are expected within the eyewall at landfall, with damaging winds extending well inland. Preparations should be completed immediately. Strong wind gusts are also likely farther north, particularly in the southern Appalachians.
- Catastrophic Flooding: Life-threatening flash and urban flooding, including landslides, are expected across parts of the southern Appalachians. Significant flooding is likely in northern Florida and the Southeast, with potential for major river flooding.
- Impacts on Cuba and the Caribbean: Tropical storm conditions are expected in western Cuba, with heavy rain and potential flooding in western Cuba and the northeastern Yucatan Peninsula.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.