Updates on Hurricane Helene as it weakens to a tropical storm following multiple fatalities in Florida and Georgia

Helene has weakened to a tropical storm as it moves inland over Georgia, bringing life-threatening storm surge, winds, and heavy rains. More than 1.28 million homes and businesses in Florida are without power. Hurricane Helene is the most powerful storm to hit the mainland US since Idalia. Nasa astronauts recorded footage of Helene near Florida’s Gulf Coast with winds exceeding 100 mph. The storm is larger than 90% of tropical cyclones in the past 20 years, impacting areas far inland. At least three people have died due to the storm, with reports of a car accident in Florida and two tornado-related deaths in Georgia. Governors across multiple states have declared emergencies. NHC warns of significant flooding and landslides. The storm has a wide wind field that extends beyond the forecast cone, with strong gusts expected in northern Georgia, the Carolinas, and the southern Appalachians. The storm continues to pose a dangerous and life-threatening situation as it moves through Georgia, causing damage and prompting evacuation warnings. Officials urge those in the path of Helene to take the storm seriously and prioritize safety.

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