Tropical Storm Helene: Florida on High Alert as Hurricane Looms

Tropical Storm Helene is on track to become a hurricane, promising life-threatening storm surges and heavy rains for Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. More than 40 million people are under warnings, with numerous evacuations and school closures. Rapid intensification is expected, with significant flooding and power outages anticipated.

Tropical Storm Helene is projected to intensify into a hurricane by Wednesday, posing a significant threat to Florida and neighboring states with life-threatening storm surges and heavy rains.

More than 40 million residents in Florida, Georgia, and Alabama are under hurricane and tropical storm warnings. Evacuations are widespread along Florida's Gulf coast, including in Sarasota and Charlotte counties, as numerous counties announce school closures in preparation for the storm.

Pinellas County officials have ordered evacuations for long-term healthcare facilities, given the region's vulnerability due to its peninsula geography. State Governor Ron DeSantis urges residents to finalize their hurricane preparedness plans. With wind speeds nearing hurricane force, Helene is expected to become a major hurricane before making landfall, potentially causing catastrophic damage and significant flooding due to storm surges and rainfall.

(With inputs from agencies.)