Helene roared ashore Florida’s Big Bend region as one of the most powerful storms to hit the United States, with officials fearing the hurricane would leave a trail of deaths and widespread destruction as it moved inland. In addition to high winds, Hurricane Helene strikes Florida with heavy rainfall. #HurricaneHeleneStrikesFlorida
At least one fatality in Florida has been attributed to the hurricane, authorities confirmed. The Category 4 storm made landfall around 11:10 p.m. Eastern time. Before its arrival, the storm caused power outages for over 1 million customers and severe flooding in multiple areas.
Officials feared more fatalities would be discovered on Friday as the storm gusted in with 140 mph (225 kph) winds. Helene is expected to trigger storm surges that could send 20 feet (6 meters) of seawater on land, and dump even more rain.
Authorities said it would likely be several hours before any rescue personnel could head out to help those in need.
Helene is tied as the 14th most powerful hurricane to hit anywhere in the United States since records have been kept, and is the seventh most powerful to slam into Florida, according to data from the National Hurricane Center.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said the one fatality linked to Helene was a driver whose car was struck by debris. “When we wake up tomorrow morning, the chances are there will likely have been more fatalities,” DeSantis added.
Officials pleaded with residents in the path of the storm to hunker down amid the life-threatening conditions. The storm surge was forecast to reach 15 to 20 feet (5 to 6 meters) in the Big Bend area of the Panhandle region where Helene came ashore. #HurricaneHeleneStrikesFlorida
Recovery Efforts Intensify After Hurricane Helene Strikes Florida
Furthermore, the aftermath of Hurricane Helene strikes Florida leaves many facing significant challenges. Power outages affect thousands, complicating recovery efforts. As communities begin to assess the damage, support systems mobilize to aid those in need.
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