Hurricane Helene, currently approaching the U.S. coastline, has strengthened to a Category 4 storm, with fierce winds reaching 215 km/h (134 mph).
What’s Happening
According to the U.S. National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm is currently located in the Gulf of Mexico. It is expected to make landfall in the Big Bend region of Florida later this Thursday (26), with the potential to cause significant damage.
The NHC has classified Helene as an extremely dangerous hurricane. A reconnaissance aircraft from the NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) confirmed the storm’s sustained winds have intensified to 215 km/h.
Local authorities have issued urgent warnings, advising residents along the hurricane’s path to evacuate immediately. Helene is expected to bring catastrophic winds and a life-threatening storm surge, with sea waves predicted to reach up to 6 meters (20 feet) high.
“This is a potentially deadly event for anyone remaining in coastal or low-lying areas. Please follow the evacuation orders, as time is running out,” warned Jared Miller, sheriff of Wakulla County, where Hurricane Helene is expected to make landfall.
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