Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida at 11:10 Thursday, September 26, as a category 4 hurricane. It is the first hurricane of this magnitude on record to hit Florida’s Big Bend region. The National Hurricane Center reported that Helene hit with initial 140 mph winds and heavy rain. The hurricane weakened to a tropical storm early Friday morning, while making its way through Georgia.
The hurricane has flooded regions from Florida to the Carolinas, leaving millions without power. Search and rescue teams are underway, and at least 11 people are now confirmed dead and 1 injured. Schools are being closed for the hurricane and related flooding as far as central Virginia.
Washington DC and Virginia are now on high alert as Helene is now sweeping through the Tennessee River Valley. Those in the regions are preparing for heavy rain and floods. Winds in Central Virginia, especially those in higher elevation, are expected to reach between 40-60 knots. Central Virginia now has a moderate risk for tornadoes and homeowners are told to expect fallen trees and property damages.
