US authorities issue warnings for tropical storm Helene

• Tropical Storm Helene Threatens to Devastate Florida
• Dangerous Flooding Could Also Affect Mexico
• Authorities Issue Extreme Warnings Today

U.S. meteorological authorities have issued warnings about the potential strengthening of Tropical Storm Helene, which could develop into a hurricane in the coming days.

According to the National Hurricane Center (NHC), the storm is expected to intensify rapidly as it moves across the Gulf of Mexico.

The latest NHC report, issued at 10:00 p.m. CDT on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, placed the center of Tropical Storm Helene about 100 miles east-southeast of Cozumel, Mexico, and 145 miles south-southwest of the western tip of Cuba.

With sustained winds of 60 mph (95 km/h), the storm is moving west-northwest at a speed of 10 mph (17 km/h), nearing the coasts of Yucatán and Cuba.

Flooding and Storm Surges

Warnings have already been issued for several regions, including a hurricane warning for the area between Anclote River and Mexico Beach, Florida, as well as for the stretch between Cabo Catoche and Tulum, Mexico. Cozumel is also under a hurricane warning.

Additionally, a tropical storm warning is in effect for the Florida Keys, parts of western Cuba, and northwestern Yucatán, Mexico.

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One of the greatest dangers posed by Helene is the potential for severe flooding.

Rainfall accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are expected in affected areas, with isolated totals of up to 12 inches in parts of western Cuba, the Cayman Islands, and the northeastern Yucatán Peninsula.

These rains could lead to flash floods, urban flooding, and significant river surges.

The NHC has also warned of dangerous storm surges that could raise water levels in coastal areas of Florida, Cuba, and Mexico.

In some parts of the Gulf of Mexico, storm surges could reach up to 15 feet above ground level, particularly in Florida’s Big Bend region.

Authorities have urged residents in areas under warning to follow evacuation orders and take precautionary measures during the passage of hurricane Helene.

Helene Could Strike Florida as a Hurricane

The forecast indicates that Tropical Storm Helene will strengthen in the coming hours, potentially becoming a hurricane by Wednesday.

Its projected path will take it over the eastern Gulf of Mexico, and it is expected to make landfall on Florida’s Big Bend coast by Thursday afternoon.

Hurricane-force winds could create extremely dangerous conditions, while heavy rains are expected to impact both urban and rural areas.

In Florida, warnings have been issued for areas from the Anclote River to Mexico Beach.

Storm surges and winds could cause significant damage, highlighting the importance of completing protective measures quickly.

The NHC has recommended that residents in Florida, Cuba, and Mexico remain alert to weather reports and local warnings.

Experts have warned that dangerous conditions could materialize within hours.

Helene could become a major hurricane in the next few hours, increasing concern over potential damage in the Gulf of Mexico region.

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