Tropical Storm Helene has formed over the Caribbean Sea and is heading towards the Gulf Coast, with forecasts predicting it will strengthen into a hurricane by Wednesday. A hurricane watch has been issued for almost all of Florida’s western coastline, with warnings of storm surges up to 15 feet high. Helene is expected to reach the Gulf Coast of Florida by Thursday and could potentially become a major hurricane. The storm is forecast to bring heavy rainfall and strong winds, leading to possible flooding and storm surges. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 61 counties and is urging residents to prepare by stocking up on supplies, cleaning up yards, and knowing evacuation routes. Preparations are also being made for potential power outages and search and rescue missions. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has predicted an active hurricane season, with Helene being fueled by record warm waters caused by human-induced climate change. If Helene does become a hurricane, it will be the fifth hurricane to hit Florida in three years.
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