Hurricane Helene is a massive storm that is heading toward Florida’s northwest coast to make landfall. However, states all across the South East U.S. need to prepare according to NOAA’s National Weather Service.

Helene’s unusually large size means the wind field will extend as far out as 275 miles from the center of the storm. Now a category 2 storm and expected to strengthen before landfall, major flood risk threatens areas from Tallahassee, FL to Atlanta, GA and even into western North Carolina.

Heavy rainfall leading up to, during and following Helene will continue through Friday across the South East U.S. and as fan north as the southern Appalachians region. Total rainfall amounts from the storm are forecast to be as much as 18 inches.

There are obvious dangers created within the actual hurricane as it makes landfall and moves through populated areas. However, beyond the actual storm itself, the saturated ground along with gusty winds brings the risk of falling trees. That can cause loss of life, block roads, cause property damage and create power outages in the path of the storm.

You can watch the “EarthCam Live: Hurricane Helene (Florida)” feed from YouTube below.

By: Buck Stevens