Evacuations Underway in Florida as Hurricane Helene Approaches

Evacuations have begun across parts of Florida as the state braces for a major hurricane strike from Hurricane Helene. The storm, now classified as a Category 3 hurricane, is forecast to make landfall within the next 48 hours, bringing life-threatening winds, storm surges, and flooding to coastal and inland areas.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis ordered mandatory evacuations for several counties along the eastern coastline, including Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach, urging residents in vulnerable zones to leave immediately. Emergency shelters have been set up to accommodate evacuees, while local authorities work to clear roads and prepare for the arrival of the storm.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has warned that Helene’s wind speeds could exceed 120 mph by the time it makes landfall, with storm surges expected to reach up to 10 feet in some areas. Heavy rainfall could also lead to widespread flooding, particularly in low-lying regions already saturated from recent storms.

In addition to evacuations, Florida’s emergency response teams have mobilized across the state, deploying sandbags, securing power grids, and pre-positioning rescue teams. Officials are also warning residents not in evacuation zones to finalize their emergency kits, secure their homes, and prepare for power outages that could last for days.

“We are dealing with a very dangerous storm,” Governor DeSantis said during a press briefing. “Now is the time to take action. Do not wait until the last minute to evacuate or prepare your home.”

As Hurricane Helene inches closer, millions of Floridians are watching its path, with meteorologists noting that any slight shift in its track could determine how severely different areas are impacted.