Tropical Storm Helene's wind field is currently at its maximum forecast range, with tropical storm-force wind gusts reaching areas along Florida's coast from the Keys to the Tampa Bay region. Despite the storm's center being over 300 miles southwest of Tampa, its impact is being felt across a wide area.
The tropical storm-force winds of Helene now span approximately 480 miles, extending from the northwestern part of the storm through its center to the southeast. To put this into perspective, if Helene's wind field were overlaid on the United States, it would stretch from Indianapolis to Washington, DC.
While hurricane-force winds do not reach as far as tropical storm-force winds, they are still extending at least 80 miles from the center of Helene. The storm's significant size is expected to result in higher storm surge and dangerous winds that will impact areas well inland.
As a result of Helene's expansive wind field and powerful winds, widespread power outages are likely across the Southeast region. Residents are advised to stay informed about the storm's progress and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
