Live Helene updates: Tropical Storm Warning for metro Atlanta

ATLANTA – Hurricane Helene is currently a category 1 storm churning its way north in the Gulf of Mexico as emergency officials urge residents in Georgia to finalize their preparations for the storm.

The FOX 5 Storm Team is monitoring its potential to strengthen into a major hurricane, potentially a Category 4, hitting the Florida Panhandle and moving its way through the heart of Georgia.

Helene is expected to impact the north Georgia area with tropical storm force winds, heavy rains, lightning, and the potential for spin-up tornadoes.

How bad is Hurricane Helene?

As of 11 p.m. on Wednesday, Helene was a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 85 mph. It’s about 425 miles southwest of Tampa or about 465 miles south-southwest of Apalachicola, moving north at 9 mph, the National Hurricane Center said.

The storm is expected to continue its northward movement, making landfall between the Big Bend and Pensacola.

Southwest Georgia, up to Columbus to Macon down to Valdosta, has been placed under a Hurricane Warning, meaning hurricane conditions will hit within the next 36 hours. The rest of Georgia is now under a Tropical Storm Warning.

A Hurricane Warning is in effect from Anclote River to Mexico Beach in Florida. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for Englewood to Anclote River, including Tampa Bay.

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for the Florida Keys, including the Dry Tortugas; Flamingo to Anclote River, including Tampa Bay; west of Mexico Beach to the Okaloosa/Walton County line; Flamingo northward to South Santee River; and Lake Okeechobee.

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued north of the South Santee River to Little River Inlet. 

Hurricane force winds extend 35 miles from the center and tropical storm-force winds extend out 345 miles.

The storm is expected to continue moving through the eastern Gulf of Mexico overnight into Thursday morning. While it slowed, forecasters believe the forward momentum will increase. It is that increase in movement which will allow damaging winds and gusts to move further inland.

SEE ALSO: Wednesday’s storms small taste of Hurricane Helene in Georgia

The U.S. National Hurricane Center said the storm is expected to “intensify and grow in size” as it moves north across the Gulf of Mexico. Heavy rainfall was forecast for the southeastern U.S. starting Wednesday, with a “life-threatening storm surge” along the entire west coast of Florida, according to the center.

Helene is expected to become a major hurricane — a Category 3 or higher — on Thursday, the day it’s set to reach Florida’s Gulf Coast, according to the hurricane center.

Hurricane Helene tracker Atlanta

While Helene has taken aim at the Florida Panhandle, it will move inland through the heart of Georgia. Effects will begin to be felt in metro Atlanta by the late afternoon and will continue until Friday morning.

The system will likely weaken to a tropical storm as it reaches metro Atlanta. Residents should be weather aware and prepare now for the potential of high winds, heavy rains, deadly lightning, and even a possible tornado. 

As of 11 p.m., the storm was about 750 miles south of Atlanta or about 575 miles southwest of Valdosta.

High winds: The winds will depend on where you live, but sustained tropical-storm-force winds with hurricane-force gusts are expected throughout metro Atlanta and north Georgia. So, dangerous winds between 39 and 74 mph with gusts as high as 80 mph are possible. 

• Residents should use Wednesday to pick up yard debris, secure loose items, bring in trash cans, take down hanging plants or chimes, and close shutters, if you so choose.
• The winds could potentially damage roofing and siding materials, along with damage to porches, awnings, carports, and sheds.
• A few buildings could experience window, door, and garage door failures.
• Mobile home damage is possible, especially if unanchored. Fences and roadway signs may also be susceptible.
• The biggest threat will be trees and branches, not to mention downed power lines. Expect extended power outages and impassable roadways through Friday evening.
• Do not attempt to cross bridges or overpasses during these winds, and do not drive high-profile vehicles.

Heavy rains: Rainfall amounts of 4 to 10 inches, with localized amounts over 12 inches, are expected. The highest amounts are expected over a wide swatch along Interstate 85 into northeast Georgia from Columbus to Atlanta to Gainesville and the northeast Georgia mountains. Widespread flooding is expected with significant flash flooding and moderate to major river flooding possible. 

• A Flood Watch is in effect for most of Georgia through Friday evening.
• There is the potential for life-threatening rainfall flooding having possible significant to extensive impacts across much of north and central Georgia.
• Rivers and tributaries may overwhelmingly overflow their banks in many places with deep moving water. Small streams, creeks, canals, arroyos, and ditches may become raging rivers. In mountain areas, deadly runoff may rage down valleys while increasing susceptibility to rockslides and mudslides. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed.
• Floodwaters can enter numerous structures within multiple communities, some structures becoming uninhabitable or washed away.
• There are numerous places where floodwaters may cover escape routes. Streets and parking lots become rivers of raging water with underpasses submerged. Driving conditions can become very dangerous. Numerous road and bridge closures with some weakened or washed out.

Tornadoes: Prepare for a dangerous tornado event having possible limited impacts across east-central Georgia.  

• The occurrence of scattered tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events.
• Several places may experience tornado damage with a few spots of considerable damage, power loss, and communications failures.
• Locations could realize roofs torn off frame houses, mobile homes demolished, boxcars overturned, large trees snapped or uprooted, vehicles tumbled, and small boats tossed about.
• Dangerous projectiles can add to the toll.

While the rain will continue through the remainder of the workweek, the winds and the heaviest portion of the storm is expected to move through Thursday evening into Friday morning. Storm conditions will continue for multiple hours.

Helene emergency resources

Helene is the eighth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an above-average Atlantic hurricane season this year because of record-warm ocean temperatures. It forecasts 17 to 25 named storms, with four to seven major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher. 

Here are som additional resources:

Watch vs. warning: Knowing the difference 

In the world of meteorology, terms like “watch” and “warning” are commonplace.  

A “watch” indicates the potential for a significant weather event, such as tornadoes, severe thunderstorms, floods, or winter conditions. It means that the ingredients for dangerous weather are present, and it could develop shortly. National Weather Service experts emphasize that a watch serves as a preparatory alert, encouraging individuals to stay informed and to devise safety plans in case conditions worsen. 

On the other hand, a “warning” is far more urgent. It confirms that the perilous weather is either happening or imminent, based on sightings or radar evidence. Warnings signal a time to take immediate action to protect life and property. Whether it’s taking shelter during a tornado warning or moving to higher ground during a flood warning, the response should be swift and decisive. 

A third term, “advisory” may be issued to give a heads up about a weather event but does not rise to the criteria of the other two. 

Meteorologists stress the importance of recognizing these alerts, as they are designed to provide timely information that can prevent loss of life and minimize injury. There are multiple ways to receive alerts — such as weather apps, radios, or text alerts — and to always err on the side of caution when these notices are issued. 

KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST BY DOWNLOADING THE FREE FOX 5 STORM TEAM APP AND FOLLOWING @FOX5STORMTEAM ON X, FORMERLY TWITTER

Atlanta weather: School closings

Hurricane Helene is impacting schools and businesses. Several high schools are opting to move their Friday football games. Multiple school districts have opted to go virtual. 

Atlanta and Fulton County schools say they will be making changes to the schedule for the coming days.

FOX 5 has a full list of closings, delays, and cancelations here.

SEE ALSO:

Atlanta airport weather delays

In Atlanta, there is the possibility that Helene will impact operations at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, which could create a ripple effect on travel across the country. 

Tampa International Airport is expected to close at 2 a.m. Thursday, but it is not clear if Atlanta will officially close.

Delta Air Lines says any rebooking made before Oct. 1 due to Helene will have the booking fee waived. Tickets must have been purchased prior to Sept. 25, 2024. 

Georgia Power crews mobilizing

Georgia Power is getting ready to handle the imminent power outages. Officials shared how they are mobilizing and gearing up.  

“They will see where the storm is going and they will be able to dispatch crews to the appropriate places where the outages are to get back on first,” said spokesperson Matthew Kent. 

He says crews are ready to face whatever Hurricane Helene brings to the state.  

“The most important thing we will be doing in the next 48 hours is we will be stationing our crews throughout the state. Many of them are already at headquarters throughout the state but we want to make sure they are in the right place to respond as quickly as possible,” Kent said. 

He says while his crews get ready to deal with the aftermath, now is the time to prepare your family and home  

“Having enough supplies to maintain yourself. Having food and water and medication. All important things to have just in case the power goes out,” Kent said. 

Other things to do is to charge cell phones, buy extra batteries, flashlights, and non-perishable items in case of power outage. 

“If your power does go out and you want to use a gas generator make sure you place it outside. It is an engine and it’s producing fumes, so you don’t want to have that inside,” Kent said.  

The most important thing is to never approach downed lines. 

“Stay away from downed power lines. If it’s on a fence or in debris they can still have energy flowing through the fence or debris,” Kent said. 

Atlanta preparing for Helene

As Hurricane Helene approaches, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens announced that all nonessential city employees will be working from home through the end of the week. The city is bracing for heavy rainfall and potential flooding, with public safety agencies and public works crews on high alert. 

“We want to assure our residents, businesses, and visitors that preparations are well underway in Atlanta to deal with Hurricane Helene,” Dickens said during a media briefing on Wednesday afternoon. 

The Atlanta Police Department, in partnership with Wellstar, has been working to inform unhoused residents about the storm, with overflow shelters planned at Selena Butler Recreation Center, Old Adamsville Recreation Center, and Central Park Recreation Center if necessary. The city is also taking steps to assist its senior population ahead of the storm. 

Transportation workers are actively clearing storm drains to prevent flooding, while firefighters are preparing for potential water rescues. Crews are also on standby to remove fallen trees. In addition, all parks and recreation activities have been canceled through the end of the week. 

Public works and watershed management teams have been working proactively to clear storm drains and monitor areas prone to flooding. The city’s ATL 311 line will begin operating outside of normal business hours, starting at midnight, to assist residents. 

Local municipalities across Metro Atlanta are also preparing for the storm. Forest Park, which is under a Tropical Storm Warning, is taking precautions. “Your public safety staff—police and fire—are ready to respond to any incident,” said Forest Park Fire Chief Latosha Clemons. “We’re ready to respond to our community.” 

For emergency alerts, Atlanta residents can text “Atlnotify” to 24639. 

Hurricane Helene preps in south Georgia 

It’s a race against time in south Georgia As residents make their last minute preparations ahead of Hurricane Helene. 

“I’ve been in so many of them. So, what I’m doing is preparing,” said Valdosta resident, James Mobley. 

“It’s going to be a massive storm. So, we can only brace for what’s about to come,” said AJ Duplessis, who just moved to Valdosta. 

Duplessis packed sandbags in Valdosta on Wednesday to prepare for possible flooding. He’s no stranger to tropical trouble after living in Louisiana and Florida. He moved to Valdosta this month and he’s not taking any chances. 

“You never know what may occur, despite of the category of the hurricanes, you never know how things may occur. So, you always want to be prepared,” he said. 

The Georgia Emergency Management Agency warns that all of Georgia’s 159 counties need to be on alert. 

“We’re really worried about the wind threat and the potential to see hurricane-force winds as it comes into the south, into the county,” said Meghan Barwick, Lowndes County EMA. 

That strong wind means Valdosta is preparing for widespread power outages. While this area is no stranger to storms, officials are urging everyone here to stock up on food and supplies to be ready. 

“We’ve had Hurricane Adelia on August 30 of 2023. We had Hurricane Debby just a month ago, and now we have Hurricane Helene. So, our community is really reeling from these storms,” Barwick said. 

Many in this community are heeding the warnings and aren’t taking this storm lightly. 

“Stocked up on everything. I’m prepared. I got water, I got food, you know, and like I said, I got a generator. So, I’m prepared. It’s not my first hurricane,” said Mobley. 

GEMA prepares for Helene’s impact on Georgia

As Hurricane Helene strengthens and nears landfall in Florida, Georgia officials are urging residents to finalize preparations, warning the storm will impact all 159 counties. The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA) stressed that the storm is moving faster than anticipated, shortening the time left to prepare. 

GEMA Director Chris Stallings highlighted the urgency. “The timeline for everybody has been sped up. After tomorrow, you need to be prepared to hunker and shelter in place,” he said. 

On Wednesday, GEMA officials provided an updated forecast for Helene, which is now expected to cross into Georgia as a Category 3 hurricane, with southern and central regions under hurricane warnings. Heavy rain, flash flooding, tornados, and widespread power outages are anticipated. 

“We’re going to see some significant power outages, probably nothing like we’ve seen,” Stallings warned. He noted that the storm’s forward speed had increased to over 25 mph, compounding the risk. “We had reports of a tornado that touched down in Habersham from this particular event, and we’ve already seen some power outages around the state…about 6,000 customers in Habersham.” 

In addition to tornadoes and power outages, mudslides in north Georgia and flash flooding statewide remain significant concerns. Stallings also announced that the Georgia National Guard will deploy 250 guardsmen on Thursday, and an emergency response center has been established in Macon. 

Georgia issues State of Emergency

Gov. Brian Kemp issued a state of emergency on Tuesday, allowing state agencies to deploy resources as needed. “The current forecast for Hurricane Helene suggests this storm will impact every part of our state,” Kemp said. “We are not taking anything for granted, which is why I have directed appropriate state agencies to work around the clock.” 

Stallings echoed Kemp’s call for preparation. “It is not safe to be out…it is extremely dangerous as we’ve seen through some of these storms the impact of what limbs and rocks and debris can do to somebody. Unfortunately, the majority of our loss of life during these events are trees falling on cars,” he said. 

GEMA advises residents to prepare for at least 72 hours without power. Stallings urged residents to charge devices, prepare emergency kits, and have plans in place to shelter in place. “Once the storm gets to you, you need to shelter in place,” he said, adding that basements are the safest option, and vehicles do not provide adequate shelter.