The National Hurricane Center (NHC) reported this morning on the formation of Tropical Storm Helene in the northwestern Caribbean Sea.
With sustained winds of 45 mph (75 km/h) and a northwestward motion at 12 mph (19 km/h), Helene is located 180 miles (295 km) southeast of Cozumel, Mexico, and 170 miles (275 km) south-southeast of the western tip of Cuba.
According to the bulletinThe storm will intensify as it moves toward the Gulf of Mexico, with the possibility of becoming a hurricane on Wednesday, and reaching the coast of the state of Florida on Thursday.
Hurricane and storm surge warnings have been issued for portions of Florida’s Gulf Coast from Indian Pass to Flamingo, including Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor.
Tropical Storm Helene: Cuba and Florida
A tropical storm warning is also in effect for the Florida Keys and the Cuban provinces of Artemisa, Pinar del Rio and Isla de la Juventud, where storm conditions are expected within the next 36 hours. Additionally, coastal areas of northwestern Cuba and the Yucatan Peninsula could experience storm surges of 2 to 4 feet above normal tide levels.
The NHC has also warned of heavy rainfall to accompany Helene, with accumulations of 4 to 8 inches expected in western Cuba and the Cayman Islands, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 12 inches. In the southeastern United States, heavy rainfall is expected that could lead to flash, urban and river flooding in some areas.
The combination of storm surge, torrential rains and strong winds presents a risky outlook for the areas under watch. Authorities urge the population to stay informed and follow the instructions of local weather services as Helene advances.
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