"A catastrophic and deadly storm surge is likely along portions of the Florida Big Bend coast, where inundation could reach as high as 20 feet above ground level, along with destructive waves," the National Weather Service reported. "There is also a danger of life-threatening storm surge along the remainder of the west coast of the Florida Peninsula. Residents in those areas should follow advice given by local officials and evacuate if told to do so," the agency said.
Helene had maximum sustained winds of 90 mph overnight Thursday, making it a Category 1 storm. Winds of 96-110 mph would make it a Category 2 and it would be classified as a Category 3 -- and major hurricane -- with winds of 111-129 mph.
The Hurricane Center said, "Strengthening is forecast, and Helene is expected to be a major hurricane when it reaches the Florida Big Bend coast this evening."
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