Hurricane Helene Threatens 'Unsurvivable' Surge Across Gulf of Mexico

Hurricane Helene, moving across the Gulf of Mexico towards Florida, threatens an 'unsurvivable' storm surge and severe weather across the southeastern US. Florida, Georgia, and Carolina governors declared emergencies. Helene could become a Category 3 hurricane, affecting areas far inland. Preparedness measures are underway in affected regions.

Hurricane Helene, a fast-moving storm, is advancing across the Gulf of Mexico towards Florida, posing a threat of an 'unsurvivable' storm surge in northwestern parts of the state, along with damaging winds, rains, and flash floods extending hundreds of miles inland.

As of early Thursday, Helene was approximately 350 miles southwest of Tampa and moving north northeast, with top sustained winds of 90 mph. The hurricane is expected to strengthen to a Category 3 or higher by the time it lands on Florida's northwestern coast on Thursday evening.

The National Weather Service in Tallahassee has warned of catastrophic storm surges and adverse weather conditions. Emergency declarations have been made by the governors of Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas, with multiple regions issuing evacuation orders and closing schools. Federal authorities are preparing for potential search-and-rescue operations, power restoration efforts, and supply distribution.

(With inputs from agencies.)