Sep. 26, 2024, 11:05 AM

By Courtney Spence

Current Status of Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene has been upgraded to a Category 2 hurricane, with wind speeds reaching up to 100 mph. It is predicted to make landfall on Florida's Big Bend this evening as at least a Category 3 hurricane, posing a significant risk of severe damage.As Hurricane Helene approaches, residents are urged to take precautions and prepare for potential impacts. Here are some key considerations and safety tips:

• Evacuation Orders: Authorities have issue evacuation orders for vulnerable areas. It is crucial to stay informed through local news and weather updates.
• Emergency Supplies: Ensure you have an emergency kit ready, including:
• Non-perishable food and water for at least three days
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• First-aid supplies
• Medications and personal hygiene items
• Important documents in a waterproof container
• Home Preparations: Secure your home by:
• Boarding up windows and doors
• Clearing gutters and downspouts
• Moving outdoor furniture and decorations inside to prevent them from becoming projectiles
• Stay Informed: Monitor the storm's progress through:
• Official meteorological updates from the National Hurricane Center
• Local emergency management agencies' announcements
• Weather apps and social media feeds for real-time information
• Plan for Communication: Establish a family communication plan in case of power outages. Designate a meeting place and ensure everyone knows how to reach each other.
• Post-Storm Safety: After the hurricane passes, remain cautious:
• Avoid floodwaters, as they may be contaminated or hide hazards
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them to authorities
• Follow local advisories regarding returning home and assessing damages

As the situation unfolds, it is essential to prioritize safety and remain vigilant. The community's resilience will be vital in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

As of 11 a.m. ET, the storm was situated 255 miles southwest of Tampa, advancing northeast at a pace of 14 mph.

A storm surge warning is active for nearly the entire west coast of Florida, where water levels may rise to "unsurvivable" heights of up to 20 feet in certain regions.

Hurricane and tropical storm warnings are now in effect for the coastal regions of southern Florida. The National Hurricane Center has emphasized, "Preparations to protect life and property must be finalized promptly."

A state of emergency has been declared in 61 of Florida's 67 counties, with several areas under evacuation orders.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis remarked at a news conference in Tallahassee last night, "The eye of the storm is approaching this region."As the winds began to pick up and dark clouds loomed overhead, Governor DeSantis emphasized the importance of preparedness and public safety. He urged residents to take the necessary precautions as the storm approached.

Key points from his address included:

• Evacuation Orders: Governor DeSantis announced that mandatory evacuation orders would be issued for certain coastal areas, encouraging residents to leave early to avoid congestion on evacuation routes.
• Emergency Services Readiness: He assured the public that emergency services were on high alert and ready to respond to any situation resulting from the storm. First responders and the National Guard were positioned to assist in affected areas.
• Resource Distribution: The governor highlighted the state's efforts to distribute essential supplies, including food, water, and medical kits, to shelters and communities likely to be impacted.
• Public Communication: DeSantis stressed the importance of staying informed. He advised residents to monitor local news and weather updates regularly and to follow instructions from local authorities.
• Community Support: He called on Floridians to look out for one another, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with disabilities, ensuring that everyone has the support they need.

As the conference concluded, the governor reiterated, "We are in this together, and our focus is on keeping everyone safe." With the storm looming, Florida residents braced themselves for what lay ahead, united in their determination to weather the storm.