Tropical Storm Helene has rapidly intensified into a hurricane and is on track to reach the US Gulf Coast as a potentially dangerous Category 3 storm by Thursday. Meteorologists are sounding the alarm, warning that this major hurricane could unleash “life-threatening” storm surges, powerful winds, and significant flooding across large swaths of Florida and the southeastern US.
The National Hurricane Center has reported that Helene is expected to pass the northeastern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula shortly and impact Florida late Thursday evening. In response to the impending storm, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency across nearly all counties in the state.
Current data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reveals that Helene’s maximum sustained winds have surged to approximately 80 mph (130 km/h). As of 12:00 GMT, the storm is moving northwest from its position near the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Forecasters from Mexico’s meteorological service have warned that popular tourist destinations like Cancún and Cozumel could experience effects from the storm early Wednesday.
As preparations intensify, beach safety officials are displaying red flags along Cancún’s beaches, warning swimmers to stay out of the water, while local fishermen are hurriedly retrieving their boats. Business owners are boarding up windows in anticipation of heavy rain and gusty winds.
In addition to Florida, Helene’s heavy rainfall is also expected to impact western Cuba and the Cayman Islands. Once the storm reaches the southeastern United States, the National Hurricane Center forecasts total rain accumulations of 5 to 10 inches (12.7-25.4 cm). Flood watches have been issued stretching from Florida to the southern Appalachians, with the Big Bend region, recently affected by Hurricane Idalia and Hurricane Debby, expected to see the most severe impacts.
Florida’s Division of Emergency Management has released information regarding voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders across various counties as residents brace for the hurricane’s arrival.
