SUMMARY: As Hurricane Helen approaches Florida’s West Coast, residents who have not evacuated are urged to seek shelter. Forecast to potentially be the strongest hurricane to hit Tallahassee, the storm brings winds up to 130 mph, flash flooding, and a dangerous 20-foot storm surge. Officials warn against travel during severe conditions and advise caution around surrounding trees. Hundreds of thousands are already without power, with restoration efforts expected to be delayed due to damage. President Biden emphasizes the importance of heeding warnings and assures that FEMA is ready to provide support with search and rescue operations and essential supplies. The storm may later impact Georgia and the Carolinas.

Hurricane Helene is a Cat. 4 storm and is very close to making landfall in the big bend area of Florida.

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SUMMARY: Hurricane Hunters, a team of skilled pilots, meteorologists, and scientists, play a crucial role in hurricane forecasting by flying directly into storms. Recently, they flew into Hurricane Helen, gathering vital data for the National Hurricane Center. Gage Golding from KPRC 2 was granted exclusive access to join their mission, which involved pre-flight checks and an intense 10-hour journey aboard a specially outfitted WC-130J aircraft. They collect critical information on wind speed, pressure, and temperature, continuously transmitting updates every ten minutes. Despite the challenging conditions, their efforts significantly improve storm forecasts and preparedness.

Their job is considered one of the most important parts of forecasting a hurricane.
Known by their nickname, the ‘Hurricane Hunters,’ members of the 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron fly right into the eye of tropical systems to help keep you and your family safe.
Stationed at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi, the Hurricane Hunters is a component of the 403 Wing of the U.S. Air Force. They’re the only routinely flying weather reconnaissance team in the world.

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SUMMARY: Florida is preparing for Hurricane Helen, with Lee County already experiencing flooding and rough surf. The storm is expected to bring gusts of 130-140 mph, particularly concerning for residents in Tallahassee. The main threat is the storm surge, potentially reaching dangerous heights. Additionally, strong winds could uproot large oak trees and cause power outages, following recent tornadoes that left parts of the city without power. Local officials and Florida State University students are taking precautions as the mayor warns this could be the strongest storm Tallahassee has faced in its history. Preparations are ongoing throughout the state.

Helene is expected to be a Cat. 4 storm with life-threatening storm surge and catastrophic flooding when it makes landfall in Florida’s Big Bend area Thursday night.

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