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Florida finds itself once again in the crosshairs of a major hurricane. Hurricane Helene will mark the 5th major hurricane to hit the sunshine state in just 7 years. Hurricane Irma 2017 (category 5), Hurricane Ian 2022 (category 5), Hurricane Michael 2018 (category 5), and Hurricane Idalia 2023 (category 4). The Big Bend region was struck by Hurricane Debby (Category 1) less than two months ago.

This large hurricane will speed up and intensify as it continues to move through the warm Gulf waters. Temperatures in the Gulf of Mexico are averaging 83-86 degrees.

The storm surge in hurricanes is the greatest threat to life and property. Storm surge amounts will peak at 15-20 feet for the Big Bend region. Areas that were hit hard from Hurricane Ian in 2022 will see storm surge around 4-7 feet. 

Hurricane Helene’s eye is visible on recent satellite imagery. Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 105 mph (165 km/h) with higher gusts.

It’s not just Helene’s intensity that has caught forecasters’ attention, but also its large size. The latest discussion from NOAA’s National Hurricane Center highlights this aspect.

After Helene moves inland, it is forecast to track over Georgia and then slow down or stall over the Tennessee Valley. Rainfall amounts for the southeastern regions will range between 3-6 inches. The rainfall will pose additional threats of flooding and landslides. 

As we approach the end of hurricane season, let’s hope Florida stays safe and is spared from any more storms.

Mandy Thalhuber

Author

Hurricane Helene will be making landfall in the Big Bend region of Florida Thursday evening. Damaging hurricane-force winds and destructive storm surge threaten Florida’s Gulf Coast. 

NOAA via National Hurricane Center

NOAA via Tropical Tidbits

Gulf of Mexico water temperatures in Celsius

Satellite view of Helene around 10 a.m. Thursday

NOAA via College of DuPage Weather

24-hour rainfall amounts from Thursday morning to Friday morning. 

Hurricane Helene making landfall Thursday night as a major hurricane

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