Hurricane Helene continues to strengthen in the Gulf of Mexico, rapidly intensifying as it approaches the Florida Panhandle. Currently a Category 2 storm, forecasters expect Helene to strengthen into a Category 3 hurricane before making landfall late Thursday or early Friday in the Big Bend region of Florida, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC) .
“A catastrophic and deadly storm surge is likely along portions of the Florida Big Bend coast, where inundation could reach as high as 20 feet above ground level, along with destructive waves,” the NHC said. “There is also a danger of life-threatening storm surge along the remainder of the west coast of the Florida Peninsula.”
Here is what determines each category for a hurricane:
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Category 1 — 74 to 95 mph sustained winds
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Category 2 — 96 to 110 mph sustained winds
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Category 3 — 111 to 129 mph sustained winds
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Category 4 — 130 to 156 mph sustained winds
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Category 5 — 157 mph or higher sustained winds
The storm is projected to bring catastrophic winds, heavy rainfall, and a life-threatening storm surge to coastal communities, with areas east of the storm’s center most at risk for severe flooding. Residents in the affected areas are urged to complete storm preparations and heed evacuation orders as conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly.
In preparation for the storm, Osceola County residents are encouraged to download the free 2024 KUA Hurricane Guide, available in both English and Spanish, at KUA.com/storm. The guide offers essential information on how to protect homes, secure emergency supplies, and create evacuation plans.
Stay updated with Positively Osceola on Hurricane Helene’s path and impacts through the National Hurricane Center’s latest advisories.
