Hurricane Helene has rapidly escalated to a Category 4 storm, barreling toward Florida’s northwest coast with catastrophic potential. The U.S. National Hurricane Center warns of a \"nightmare\" storm surge reaching up to 6 meters (20 feet) in some areas, threatening coastal communities with life-threatening flooding.
Latest Updates
As of Thursday, Helene is 144 km south of Tallahassee, moving northeast at 38 km/h. Over 600,000 homes and businesses are already without power in Florida, with high winds and torrential rain lashing the state.
Shifting Trajectory
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed the storm’s path has shifted eastward, likely sparing Tallahassee a direct hit. Instead, Helene is now aimed at the Big Bend region—a quieter area where Florida’s Panhandle meets the peninsula. Residents in fishing villages and vacation spots there are urged to take immediate precautions.
Why It Matters
This storm could reshape coastlines and disrupt lives across the Southeast U.S. Authorities emphasize evacuation orders for vulnerable zones. Stay tuned for real-time updates and safety tips.
Reference(s):
Hurricane Helene strengthens to Category 4 as it approaches Florida
cgtn.com