Florida prepares for the approaching hurricane "Helen" , which, according to meteorological forecasts, will strengthen to a category four storm when it enters the northwestern part of the state, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
Authorities have urged coastal residents in the hurricane's path to evacuate ahead of the arrival of damaging winds that are expected to unleash a potentially deadly surge. In places, the water level may rise by more than six meters.
"This is not a situation that people in coastal or low-lying areas can survive," said Jared Miller, Wakulla County Sheriff.
"Helen" passed through the Gulf of Mexico, gaining energy from the warm ocean water. The hurricane was moving north-northeast this morning with maximum sustained winds of 150 km/h, the National Hurricane Center said.
According to meteorologists "Helen" will reach the northwest Florida coastline this evening, with sustained winds increasing to 150 mph.
"Unfortunately, the wind will have catastrophic consequences for those in its path," said National Hurricane Center Deputy Director Jamie Rome.