As Hurricane Helene approaches the Gulf Coast of Florida, forecasters are warning of major rainfall and winds that could cause flooding even hundreds of miles inland. The storm’s massive size, with winds extending up to 275 miles from its center, poses a significant risk for inland flooding even after landfall. Rain totals of up to 18 inches are expected in the southeastern part of the country, with major urban flooding possible in cities like Tallahassee, Atlanta, and western North Carolina.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings of potential flash floods, landslides, and river flooding in the southern Appalachians. The storm’s impact could extend as far north as Indiana, Ohio, and Washington, D.C., with a particular concern for northern Georgia, upstate South Carolina, and western North Carolina. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has declared a state of emergency in preparation for the storm’s effects.
The Fujiwhara effect, the rotation of two storms around each other, could intensify Helene’s rainfall inland. The storm may interact with another system over the south-central U.S, leading to heavy rainfall in states far from the storm’s center. This could help alleviate drought conditions in parts of Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky.
Officials are advising residents to evacuate if necessary, be aware of flood-prone areas, have an emergency plan in place, and stay off flooded roadways. Preparations should include an emergency kit with essential supplies such as water, nonperishable food, and medications. The impact of Hurricane Helene could extend well beyond the Florida coast, posing a significant risk of flooding and damage inland.
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