Hurricane Helene is a “dangerous” storm expected to make landfall in Florida on Thursday (Sept. 26) evening, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Reports state Hurricane Helene has strengthened to a major Category 3 hurricane with wind speeds of 120 mph. The storm has already left Cancun, Mexico with flooded streets, downed trees, and travel disruptions as it heads toward Florida’s Big Bend.
Hurricane and tropical storm warnings have been issued across Florida. A state of emergency was declared in 61 of Florida’s 67 counties and many have been ordered to evacuate.
During a press conference on Wednesday (September 25) night, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said in Tallahassee: “The eye of the storm is coming in this region.”
Storm surge warnings are also in place for most of Florida’s west coast. Michael Brennan, director of the NHC, said the storm surge could reach up to 20 feet, creating an “unsurvivable scenario” along the coastline.
FEMA Director Deanne Criswell warned Thursday that Hurricane Helene will impact other states in its path.
“This is going to be a multistate event with the potential for significant impacts from Florida all the way to Tennessee,” Criswell said during a White House briefing.
Criswell also urged people to listen to warnings that are in place.
“You need to listen to your local officials,” she said. “If they tell you to evacuate, please do so. And if they tell you to shelter in place, then that’s what you should do. They’re going to give you the best information that you can do for your specific situation. Those decisions can save lives.”
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