As Helene's powerful winds continue to batter Florida's western coast, storm surge levels are rapidly rising in several key locations. The latest surge measurements indicate significant impacts in various areas:
- Tampa Bay (East Bay): 5.5 feet
- St. Petersburg: 5 feet
- Clearwater Beach: 5 feet
- Fort Myers: 5 feet
- Cedar Key: 4 feet
- Apalachicola: 3.5 feet
With high tide approaching in the next few hours, the combination of Helene's landfall and peak tide levels could lead to surge values reaching their worst-case scenarios. The Big Bend region of Florida, where Helene is expected to make landfall, faces the highest risk with surge levels potentially reaching up to 20 feet. Further down the coast, surge levels of up to 10 feet are possible, while the Tampa Bay area could experience surges of up to 8 feet.
Authorities are warning residents in these areas to take immediate precautions and heed evacuation orders if issued. Record-breaking surge levels are a distinct possibility, and residents are urged to prioritize their safety above all else.
