Hurricane Helene Intensifies to Category 3, Expected to Strike Big Bend This Evening
(Credit to National Hurricane Center)
Hurricane Helene has intensified to a category 3 as it approaches Florida’s Big Bend region. According to the latest National Weather Service report at 5 PM EDT, Helene has maximum sustained winds of 125 mph and is moving north-northeast at 23 mph. The storm is forecasted to travel northwestward after making landfall in Florida’s Big Bend this evening. It is expected to continue strengthening and may become a category 4 once it makes landfall.
Helene strengthens into a category 3 (Credit to National Hurricane Center)
Within the eyewall of Helene, potentially devastating hurricane-force winds are expected to move inland, impacting parts of northwest Florida. The safest place to take shelter is the interior of your home on the bottom floor if you have multiple levels. You may want to take your storm provisions with you, such as water, flashlights, and a first aid kit, as you might need to stay sheltered after the storm due to downed power lines and trees. It’s also important to ensure your furry friends have everything they need to weather the storm and take shelter with you.
