Hurricane Helene Expected to Hit Florida

Hurricane Helene is rapidly intensifying as it approaches the Florida coast, now classified as a Category 2 hurricane with projected maximum winds of 130 mph and catastrophic storm surges of up to 20 feet. Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued for 20 Florida counties, with the entire state, along with Georgia and the Carolinas, under a state of emergency. Officials warn that the storm could produce an 'unsurvivable' storm surge, particularly in Florida's Apalachee Bay, and have urged residents to heed evacuation orders seriously. Local preparations include stocking up on supplies and assistance from relief organizations like CBN's Operation Blessing, which is ready to aid affected communities. The National Hurricane Center continues to track Helene, forecasting significant inland flooding and high winds that could reach far beyond the coast. As the storm nears landfall, officials emphasize the urgency of the situation, noting that rescue operations will not be conducted for those who ignore evacuation orders.