Massive storm Helene poses catastrophic risks across the Southeast
Hurricane Helene has already left Florida's coast battered with flooding and power outages, but the worst is yet to come with catastrophic storm surge and historic flooding predicted.
Jason Samenow, Matthew Cappucci, Dan Stillman and Ian Livingston report for The Washington Post.
In short:
- The storm surge in Florida’s Big Bend could reach 15 to 20 feet, threatening to engulf entire communities.
- North Carolina is bracing for historic flooding, with some regions expecting up to 15 inches of rain.
- Major cities like Tallahassee and Atlanta face destructive winds, flooding, and the possibility of tornadoes.
Key quote:
“Helene has the potential to become a generational storm and the threat it poses is significant to life and property.”
— National Weather Service in Tallahassee
Why this matters:
Warming oceans are turbocharging these systems, fueling their strength and making them more unpredictable. Add to that the public health risks from contaminated water and the toxic mold that will could fester in the flooded wreckage, and Helene's toll could stretch far beyond the immediate days of destruction. Read more: Robbie Parks on why hurricanes are getting deadlier.
