SUMMARY: Hurricane Helen made landfall in Florida as a category 4 hurricane but has since weakened to a tropical storm, currently moving northeast through Georgia and the Carolinas. In Asheville, North Carolina, rain and strong wind gusts have begun impacting the area, leading to flash flood warnings due to prior disturbances. Emergency crews are preparing for potential water rescues, with self-evacuations encouraged. Officials warn of a possible 500-year flood, and approximately 15,000 homes are affected, contributing to over 500,000 power outages across the Carolinas. Residents are advised to stay off roads and evacuate if necessary.

Helene made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane overnight and is now a tropical storm moving northeast. FOX’s Chelsea Torres has more from Ashville, North Carolina.

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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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