Hurricane Helene Threatens Florida as State of Emergency Declared
Tropical Storm Helene, which has recently formed in the Caribbean, is projected to rapidly intensify into a major hurricane as it approaches Florida's Gulf coast. Meteorologists have issued hurricane warnings for parts of Florida, with the storm expected to impact several counties, including those in the Bay Area and the Panhandle. Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 61 Florida counties, and evacuation orders are in place for the Tampa Bay region. Authorities are advising residents to prepare for heavy rain, strong winds, and possible flooding as Helene could become one of the strongest hurricanes to make landfall this season. Preparations are underway in cities like Miami and Hollywood, as school closures have also been announced across affected areas. The National Hurricane Center continues to track the storm's development and potential impacts beyond Florida, including threats to South Georgia and the Carolinas.
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