H
urricane Helene is bearing down on Florida's Gulf Coast, putting approximately 25,000 homes at risk of flooding due to storm surge. According to CoreLogic estimates, the total reconstruction cost value for these homes could reach $5.6 billion if Helene makes landfall as a strong Category 3 hurricane.

    Currently heading towards Apalachee Bay in Florida's Big Bend region, Helene is expected to make landfall on Thursday, September 26, with sustained winds exceeding 125 mph and potentially catastrophic gusts. The storm surge, which can be deadly and destructive, will depend on various factors including the storm's size, speed, intensity, and tidal phase.

    The National Hurricane Center predicts storm surge heights of 15 to 20 feet above ground level from Apalachee Bay to Chassahowitzka, with potential levels of 8 to 10 feet in the Tampa Bay/St. Petersburg area. As Helene continues its path north through Tallahassee and eventually reaches Atlanta, Georgia, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their properties.