As Hurricane Helene barrels towards Florida’s Big Bend region, residents are bracing for the full force of the storm. While all sides of a hurricane bring hazards, the right side, also known as the “dirty side,” is particularly notorious for its destructive potential.
Understanding why the right side is so dangerous is crucial for residents to make informed decisions and stay safe during the storm.
The right side of a hurricane experiences the combined effects of the storm’s forward motion and its counter-clockwise rotation.
Read: NHC Update: Hurricane Helene Strengthens, Major Hurricane Landfall Expected In Florida
This results in significantly stronger winds and a higher storm surge on the right side compared to the left. In Hurricane Helene’s case, this means that coastal communities along Florida’s Gulf coast, particularly to the east of the storm’s center, are at a heightened risk of devastating storm surge and wind damage.
The right side of a hurricane also tends to receive a greater amount of rainfall, leading to increased risks of flash flooding and river flooding. This is because the storm’s forward motion pushes the heaviest rain bands onto the right side, where they can stall and dump tremendous amounts of water in a short period.
As Helene moves inland, communities in northern Florida and the Southeast should be prepared for potentially catastrophic flooding.
Read: AccuWeather: Helene Poses Extreme Risk To Lives In Florida, Georgia, Tennessee And Carolina’s
Another significant threat associated with the right side of a hurricane is the increased likelihood of tornadoes. The complex wind patterns in this region can spawn tornadoes, often with little warning. These tornadoes can cause significant damage, even in areas that may not experience the full brunt of the hurricane’s winds and storm surge.
Understanding the dangers of the right side of a hurricane is crucial for residents in the path of Hurricane Helene.
Heeding evacuation orders, staying informed about the latest forecasts, and taking all necessary precautions are essential for staying safe during this powerful storm. Remember, the right side of a hurricane is not to be taken lightly, and its devastating impacts can extend far beyond the immediate landfall zone.
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