Helene is forecast to become a major hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico on Thursday. The latest forecast track continues to show the storm making landfall Thursday evening along the eastern Florida Panhandle or along Florida’s Big Bend.
There may still be some slight shifts in the track before landfall. As the storm pushes into South Georgia impacts will overspread Southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry. Tropical Storm Watches are in the place for much of Southeast Georgia. I expect Hampton, Jasper, and Beaufort counties in South Carolina to be added to the watch in future updates.
Hurricane Watches and Warnings are in place from South Georgia to the Florida Coast.
Impacts for Southeast Georgia and the Lowcountry may include pockets of heavy rain, strong gusty winds, isolated tornadoes, and coastal flooding.
The threat of isolated tornadoes has increased. This is something we are watching closely for Thursday afternoon through Thursday night.
Wind gusts of 50-60+ mph are possible, with the highest gusts arrive Thursday night. Rainfall totals of 1″-3″ are expected around Savannah. Totals may be a bit higher closer to Vidalia, Metter, and Alma.
I also expect there to be power outages in parts of our area. Make sure to check back for updates as new information will continue to arrive regarding the forecast track and strength of the storm…