SUMMARY: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has urged North Florida residents in evacuation zones to leave immediately due to impending severe weather. His warning comes as over 10 tornado watches and warnings are active, with water shut off in two counties and widespread power outages affecting thousands, particularly in Tampa and surrounding regions. DeSantis emphasized that residents outside the storm’s center should still prepare for significant damage. He stressed that evacuation must happen without delay, as conditions will quickly become dangerous, and that the area has not experienced a storm of this magnitude in many years.

Florida prepping for Hurricane Helene

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SUMMARY: Several states, including Florida, have declared states of emergency as a hurricane approaches, potentially bringing up to 20 feet of storm surge and heavy rain. Many residents are evacuating to higher ground, schools are closed, and supplies are rapidly depleting, with shelves emptying of food and water. Individuals are preparing for the worst, with some, like a waterfront restaurant owner, moving all their belongings for safety. Concerns over electricity outages are rising, particularly in places like Atlanta. Residents express apprehension about the storm, noting the unique dangers posed by the expected storm surge.

The state is preparing for wind and rain as Helene is expected to make landfall.

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SUMMARY: Hurricane Helen is strengthening as it approaches the Gulf Coast, expected to make landfall tomorrow, but will weaken to a tropical storm by the time it reaches Middle Tennessee. Rain is anticipated to start Thursday night, with the heaviest downpours occurring on Friday, potentially bringing 4 to 7 inches in some areas. The National Weather Service forecasts 4-5 inches along the I-65 corridor and 3-4 inches to the east. Wind gusts will increase, reaching up to 47 mph in some locations on Friday, before tapering off Saturday. Rain and wind will continue intermittently throughout the weekend.

Davis Nolan takes a look at the projected effects of wind and rain from Helene.

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