Hurricane Helene Targets Gulf Coast with Catastrophic Winds

Photo byNational Weather Service

Helene is barreling towards the Northeastern Gulf Coast with devastating winds and storm surges, threatening life and property.

Urgent Preparations Underway as Helene Intensifies

[MIAMI] — Issued by the National Weather Service at 4:00 AM CDT on September 26, 2024.

Hurricane Helene, now boasting winds of 90 mph, is set to bring catastrophic conditions to the Northeastern Gulf Coast, impacting areas from Mexico Beach to Tampa Bay. Residents are urged to finalize emergency preparations as the storm is expected to make landfall tonight.

Major Hurricane to Slam Florida Big Bend Area Tonight

Hurricane Helene is moving north-northeast at 12 mph, targeting the Florida Big Bend area. Forecasts predict the storm will make landfall this evening or early Friday morning with winds strengthening to major hurricane status. This will likely cause widespread damage, and residents are urged to heed evacuation orders from local authorities.

Life-Threatening Storm Surge Expected

The Storm Surge Warning issued for areas from Mexico Beach to Flamingo, including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor, indicates water levels could rise as high as 20 feet in some regions. This surge poses a severe risk to life and property, and those in vulnerable zones should move to higher ground immediately.

Florida Keys and Western Cuba Already Feeling the Impact

As of early this morning, tropical storm conditions have begun in the Florida Keys, and western Cuba is bracing for heavy rainfall and wind gusts of up to 64 mph. The Dry Tortugas are also under threat, with conditions expected to deteriorate further.

Heavy Rain and Flooding a Major Concern

Helene is expected to bring 6 to 12 inches of rain to the Southeastern U.S., with isolated areas seeing up to 18 inches. This deluge could result in catastrophic flash flooding and river flooding across the region. The Southern Appalachians are at particular risk for landslides due to the heavy, sustained rainfall.

Tornadoes and Severe Weather Likely Across Multiple States

The threat of tornadoes will increase today through tonight, particularly in northern Florida, southeast Georgia, and the Carolinas. Residents should remain vigilant and have a safety plan in place for sudden severe weather.

Storm Surge Details for Affected Areas

• Carrabelle, FL to Suwannee River, FL: 15-20 feet
• Apalachicola, FL to Carrabelle, FL: 10-15 feet
• Tampa Bay: 5-8 feet
• Charlotte Harbor: 3-5 feet

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast - Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by NWS. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, or your local news channels and NOAA All Hazards radio. Please follow ThumbWind Publications for more local weather and news updates. Your helpful comments are welcome.