Hurricane Helene Causes Storm Surges, Flooding In The Florida Keys

Florida Keys, FL - Hurricane Helene made its presence felt in the Florida Keys on Thursday, as the storm's rain bands brought heavy rainfall to the region causing flooding across the area.

The strong winds from Helene battered the towering Royal poinciana trees and resilient coastal Seagrape shrubs, while dry leaves and debris clogged drains.

Some residents volunteered their time to clear the drains and prevent flooding.

Monroe County schools and school district offices were closed due to the storm.

In western Cuba's Pinar del Rio and Artemisa provinces, many residents were forced to evacuate flood-prone areas.

While Key West experienced flooding, there were no reports of significant damage.

Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in Florida as Hurricane Helene approached the state's northwestern coast.

The storm is expected to make landfall Thursday night as a Category 4 hurricane in the Big Bend area.