Millions are without power across the Southeastern U.S., NC dam is in danger of failing.
UPDATE Sept 27th, 5:50 PM EDT
Helene, now a tropical storm, has caused power outages in ten states and trapped people in flooded homes. At least 21 have died as emergency crews try to rescue people, and several Georgia hospitals are without power.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said that authorities were “having a hard time getting to places,” so teams with chainsaws were “working to free up roads.”
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis described the disaster as greater than the combined damage of Idalia and Debby, calling it “demoralizing.”
Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator Deanne Criswell is headed to Florida. President Joe Biden said that his prayers are with the survivors of the hurricane and tropical storm.
Weather officials continue to warn of mudslides and flash flooding as the storm system proceeds north into Tennessee and Kentucky.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicted an above-average hurricane season in the Atlantic due to warm ocean temperatures.
UPDATE Sept 27th, 12:10 AM EDT
As Tropical Storm Helene continues up the southeastern coast of the U.S., 11 have been reported dead, including a first responder. The Lake Lure Dam in Rutherford County, North Carolina, is in imminent danger of failing as the flooding from excessive rain continues through the region.
Residents of several counties are under boil water advisories as bacteria has been released into the water systems in many areas due to backwashed flood waters. Officials recommend using bottled water if possible.
UPDATE Sept 27th, 8:40 AM EDT
Georgia got hit by Tropical Storm Helene Friday morning. After making landfall in Florida as a Category 4 near Perry, Florida, late Thursday, the National Hurricane Center reported that the storm system reduced to tropical storm strength as it neared South Carolina.
There have been at least 8 reported storm-related deaths in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina as rescuers seek to assist residents trapped by flood waters. More than 4.4 million customers are without power between Florida and Virginia.
The National Hurricane Center stated Helene is tied for 14th as the most powerful storm to hit the U.S. and the seventh most powerful encountered in Florida.
UPDATE Sept 26th, 11:10 PM EDT
Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm Thursday night in the Big Bend region of Florida.
The National Hurricane Center called it “extremely dangerous,” stating, “As catastrophic winds spread onshore, please do not leave your shelters and remain in place through the passage of these life-threatening conditions. When the eye comes ashore, do not venture out! Helene is moving quickly, and hazardous winds will return rapidly as the eye passes.”
UPDATE Sept 26th, 4:10 PM EDT
Hurricane Helene strengthened from a Category 1 on Wednesday to a Category 3 storm on Thursday. The hurricane is expected to make landfall along Florida’s Gulf Coast Thursday evening. The National Hurricane Center estimated sustained winds of up to 115 mph possible at landfall. If the sustained winds strengthen to above 130 mph, it will reach Category 4 strength.
Many Florida counties have ordered mandatory evacuations. The sheriff of Wakulla County said the area may face “catastrophic” storm surge. “This will not be a survivable event for those in coastal or low lying areas,” Sheriff Miller stated on social media. “There has not been a storm of this magnitude to hit Wakulla in recorded history.” The storm surge for the Tampa Bay area is expected to reach up to 8 feet, while the Big Bend region may see up to 20 feet.
The hurricane center forecast landfall will occur in the Big Bend region of Florida and is anticipated to turn northwest. Other states in the Southeast are bracing for the impact as well.
Over a hundred thousand customers are without power as the hurricane neared the panhandle of Florida. Tornado watches have been issued for much of Florida, and parts of Georgia and South Carolina.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the weather officials tracking the storm as they issue updates.
- For state and local leaders as they oversee recovery efforts after the hurricane and flooding.
- For first responders and others who are attempting to assist and rescue residents.
Sources: USA Today, ABC News, VOA News
