September 25, 2024
The storm is forecast to rapidly strengthen over the eastern Gulf of Mexico and become a major hurricane on Thursday.
The National Hurricane Center in Wednesday morning’s public advisory for Tropical Storm Helene. Helene is expected to reach hurricane strength on Thursday.
Why It Matters: On its current path, Helene is projected to make landfall on the coast of Florida’s Big Bend by Thursday evening. While the storm’s maximum sustained winds are currently at 70 mph, Helene is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane by landfall. Helene is forecast to produce up to 15 inches of rain in portions of the southeastern United States, and storm surges up to 15 feet. Tropical Storm and Hurricane Warnings are in effect from Mexico through Altamaha Sound, Georgia.
If you are in the warning cone, here are some helpful tips to prepare for the storm.
Read More: Helene rapidly organizing, remains on track to become major hurricane on approach to Florida (Fox Weather)
NOAA Predicts Especially Active Hurricane Season (SmartHER News)
Image Credit: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
by Stephanie Wagner, based in Florida
