MIAMI, FL – Hurricane Helene has intensified and is poised to impact Florida with the might of a Category 4 storm, according to the National Hurricane Center. The Gulf Coast of Florida is under storm surge and hurricane warnings as Helene swells in both size and power. Forecast models indicate the storm could strike the Big Bend area as a major hurricane.
Central Florida, meanwhile, is bracing for tropical storm conditions. Helene, currently situated approximately 430 miles south-southwest of Tampa, boasts maximum sustained winds of 85 mph and a minimum central pressure of 974 mb. The hurricane is predicted to accelerate northward or north-northeastward over the next 36 hours. On its projected path, Helene will traverse the eastern Gulf of Mexico tonight and Thursday before making landfall along the Florida Big Bend coast on Thursday evening. Post-landfall, Helene is expected to veer northwest and decelerate over the Tennessee Valley by Friday and Saturday.
The National Weather Service has issued a comprehensive set of watches and warnings. A hurricane watch is in effect for the Cuban province of Pinar del Rio and from Englewood to Anclote River, including Tampa Bay. Hurricane warnings have been declared for Western Marion County, from Anclote River to Mexico Beach, Florida, and from Cabo Catoche to Tulum, Mexico, including Cozumel. In addition, tropical storm watches cover areas from north of South Santee River to Little River Inlet.
Despite the storm’s center not passing directly through Central Florida, the region will still experience significant impacts. Heavy rainfall, potential flooding, gusty winds, and the possibility of tornadoes are the major threats. The outer rain bands of Helene are expected to introduce tropical moisture into east Central Florida by Wednesday, bringing rain and occasional storms in the afternoon.
As Helene approaches Florida and ultimately makes landfall, residents of Central Florida should prepare for severe weather conditions. The National Weather Service warns of tropical-storm-force winds extending several hundred miles from Helene’s center, with wind gusts potentially reaching 60 mph. Tornadoes embedded in rain bands are also a concern, particularly on Thursday.
Authorities urge residents to stay informed and prepared. Continuous updates and detailed weather forecasts are available through various local news channels and weather apps.