Thousands of Floridians are evacuating as Tropical Storm Helene rapidly strengthens, with forecasters predicting it could become a major hurricane. The storm is expected to hit Florida’s Gulf Coast by late Thursday, potentially becoming the strongest hurricane to strike the U.S. in over a year.
Mandatory evacuations have been ordered for parts of at least nine counties, including Citrus, Hillsborough, Charlotte, Gulf, Manatee, and Pinellas. Governor Ron DeSantis has expanded the state of emergency to cover 61 of Florida’s 67 counties. The Florida National Guard and State Guard are on high alert, ready to assist with evacuation and recovery efforts. Additionally, resources like Starlink units are on standby to maintain internet access if the storm damages communication infrastructure.
Currently moving north through the Gulf of Mexico, Helene is expected to make landfall in the Big Bend region. It could reach Category 3 status with winds surpassing 110 mph. The Big Bend area, still reeling from past hurricanes like Debby and Idalia, may experience up to 15 feet of storm surge, leading to significant flooding risks.
Hurricane warnings are in effect for Florida’s Gulf Coast, from Anclote River to Mexico Beach, and parts of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, including areas from Cabo Catoche to Tulum. Authorities are urging residents to stay informed through local news and official weather advisories as the storm approaches.
