The National Hurricane Center is tracking potential Tropical Storm Helene as the system strengthens and prepares to enter the Gulf of Mexico.
As of the latest advisory, the system has sustained winds of 35-mph just below the 39-mph threshold for a tropical storm.
Tropical storm warnings are in place for Florida’s Dry Tortugas and part of the Keys and from Bonita Beach to Flamingo.
It's expected to strengthen to a Category Three hurricane by the time it makes landfall somewhere along the Panhandle, Big Bend, and west-central Florida coasts.
A hurricane watch is in effect for the Gulf Coast of Florida from Englewood to Indian Pass, including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor, the hurricane center said in the 8 a.m. update. A tropical storm watch is in place to the north and south of the hurricane watch area, from Indian Pass to the Walton-Bay County line and from north of Bonita Beach to Englewood.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has declared an emergency for 41 the state’s 67 counties to expedite preparations and coordinate federal, state and local governments ahead of the storm’s landfall.
Forecasters warn that wind, rain and flooding could be felt from this system throughout the entire state of Florida starting Wednesday afternoon.
“Heavy rainfall will likely result in locally considerable flash and urban flooding across portions of Florida, with isolated flash and urban flooding possible across the Southeast, Southern Appalachians, and the Tennessee Valley Wednesday through Friday. Minor to isolated moderate river flooding will be possible,” the National Hurricane Center said.
Helene would be the fourth hurricane to make landfall in the US this year and the fifth hurricane to slam into Florida since 2022.
Remember to prepare for the storm you should:
- Stock up on food, water and supplies before the hurricane season starts.
- Have at least a two-week supply of your medications.
- Stay aware of weather conditions.
- Make plans in advance, whether you need to evacuate or if you decide to stay.
- Stay in tune with weather forecasts and updates as much as possible.
- Be prepared to leave immediately should local authorities issue evacuation orders - take them seriously.
- Finish any last-minute preparations, most specifically those on your home's exterior.
- Have a 3-day supply of clean water and non-perishable food for each member of your family, including pets.