Helene's impact on Florida: Evacuations and storm surge warnings

As Helene approached Florida’s Gulf Coast, federal authorities issued evacuation orders for several counties, including Franklin, Taylor, Liberty, and Wakulla, affecting approximately 70,000 residents. The storm made landfall late Thursday night with wind speeds exceeding 140 mph, leading to torrential rains and storm surges up to 20 feet in some areas. Local officials described the situation as potentially catastrophic, urging residents to heed evacuation orders seriously. The aftermath of the storm revealed extensive damage, with Clearwater’s mayor indicating that the full extent of destruction would be assessed once daylight returned.

Storm Surge and Flooding Risks

The National Weather Service warned of “unsurvivable” storm surge conditions, particularly in Apalachee Bay, where the combination of high winds and heavy rainfall led to significant flooding. The storm’s progression into Georgia brought continued threats, with flash flood emergencies declared and additional rainfall expected.

Power Outages and Casualties

In the wake of Helene, more than 3.5 million people across the southeastern U.S. experienced power outages, with Florida alone reporting over 1.2 million customers without electricity. Tragically, the storm has been linked to at least five fatalities, including a young child in North Carolina due to hazardous driving conditions. The extensive damage and ongoing risks from Helene underscore the critical need for preparedness and timely evacuations during severe weather events.