Hurricane Helene is expected to bring catastrophic storm surge to Florida’s coast, especially along the “Big Bend” region of the Gulf of Mexico. Residents like Gene and Margaret Taylor, who experienced the devastating storm surge of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, understand the dangers that water can bring. The National Hurricane Center has warned of potentially historic surges of 15 to 20 feet along the coast.
Storm surge is caused by rising ocean levels during a storm, which can lead to extreme flooding along the coast and inland through rivers and streams. Florida’s northern Gulf Coast is particularly vulnerable due to its wide continental shelf, allowing water to stack up. The force of storm surges, compounded by rough waves, can cause extensive destruction to coastal structures.
Emergency officials emphasize the importance of evacuating low-lying coastal areas when instructed, to avoid being caught in the path of a life-threatening storm surge. Improved forecasting and evacuation measures have helped reduce storm surge fatalities in recent years. However, the unpredictability of each storm means that every surge can vary in height and reach.
The Taylors’ experience during Hurricane Katrina serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preparedness and heeding evacuation orders in the face of such natural disasters. The predicted storm surge heights for Hurricane Helene along the Florida coast underscore the potential dangers that residents must be aware of and take precautions against.
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