As Hurricane Helene approaches Florida’s Gulf Coast, forecasters are warning of catastrophic flooding and strong winds extending inland hundreds of miles. The storm is massive, with winds reaching up to 275 miles from its center, posing a significant risk for major rain and flooding even after it makes landfall.
Heavy rain is expected to begin in the southeastern part of the country before Helene even reaches land, with rain totals of up to 18 inches expected in the southern Appalachian region by Friday. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for potential urban flooding in cities like Tallahassee, metro Atlanta, and western North Carolina.
Even areas as far north as Indiana, Ohio, and Washington, D.C. could experience flooding as a result of Helene’s impact. The storm’s sheer size and potential interaction with another system known as the Fujiwhara effect could intensify the rainfall and flooding in inland areas, including parts of Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky.
Officials are urging residents to prepare for extreme flooding by evacuating if necessary, knowing if they live in a flood-prone area, and having an emergency kit ready. It is important to stay off flooded roadways and follow instructions from local emergency management authorities to ensure the safety of themselves and their families.
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