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Hurricane Helene Set to Strike Florida with Catastrophic Winds and Storm Surge, South Carolina Prepares for Impact

September 26, 2024 10:15AM EDT
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(Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

“We will likely avoid the brunt of this storm, but it is still expected to bring flooding, high winds, and isolated tornadoes.”     – Gov. McMaster

Hurricane Helene is rapidly approaching the Florida Panhandle and is expected to make landfall around 8 PM tonight as a powerful Category 3 hurricane or stronger. Moving through exceptionally warm Gulf waters, Helene could bring wind gusts of up to 130 mph. While the high winds pose a serious threat, forecasters are particularly concerned about a potential 20-foot storm surge that could devastate coastal areas.

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for South Carolina ahead of Hurricane Helene, with winds of 40 to 60 mph expected in the next 24 hours. Rain showers are already arriving this morning and will intensify through the afternoon. Winds are predicted to strengthen between 6 PM and midnight, with gusts reaching 40 mph in some areas. The peak effects, including potential tornadoes, will hit the Midlands between 2 AM and 9 AM Friday, with heavy rain and winds tapering off by 10 AM.

In Florida, a storm surge warning is in effect for Tampa Bay, Charlotte Harbor, and areas from Mexico Beach to Flamingo, with authorities urging residents to evacuate in the face of what is being described as an “unsurvivable” surge. Governor McMaster has declared a State of Emergency for South Carolina, encouraging residents to stay informed and prepare. President Joe Biden has also declared a federal disaster in Florida, ensuring quick access to federal aid for the region.

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