Hurricane Helene has rapidly intensified into a dangerous Category 3 storm as it approaches Florida's Big Bend area, with forecasters warning of potentially deadly storm surges and historic flooding. Residents in the path of the hurricane are bracing for severe weather, with Tallahassee City Manager announcing a response team of 2,000 workers across various utilities. Helene's trajectory could also lead to significant impacts in southeastern states, including North Carolina and Tennessee, prompting declarations of states of emergency and widespread power outage anticipations. Airports in the region, including Tampa International, are suspending operations in preparation. The National Weather Service has issued multiple warnings, including a tornado watch, while authorities urge residents to evacuate if necessary, as the storm could create conditions deemed 'unsurvivable.'