those who do not travel only read one page

Saint Augustine: 'The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.'

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page.

The quote by Saint Augustine, "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page," beautifully encapsulates the idea that experiencing different cultures and exploring the world is essential for gaining a holistic understanding of life. In a straightforward interpretation, this quote suggests that simply staying in one's comfort zone and not venturing beyond familiar territory limits one's knowledge and perspective. It implies that to truly comprehend the vastness and diversity of the world, one must embrace the opportunity to travel and immerse themselves in various cultures.However, let us now delve into an unexpected philosophical concept to bring a unique perspective to the discussion. Consider the idea that not only does traveling enable us to read multiple pages of the world, but it also allows us to transcend the boundaries of the book entirely. Imagine that each new place visited is like turning a page, unveiling fresh insights and perspectives. As the pages of the book turn, we are not just reading stories but actively participating in the narrative, shaping our own experiences and understanding.This thought can be likened to the concept of living life as a multidimensional story, wherein each individual's unique experiences and interactions contribute to the narrative of the world. Just as a book unfolds with each turned page, life unfolds with every choice we make and every place we visit. By traveling, we expand our personal story, enriching not only ourselves but also the collective narrative of humanity.Contrasting this philosophical concept with the original interpretation of the quote, we find that both perspectives emphasize the significance of travel in broadening our horizons. While the straightforward understanding encourages exploration to gain knowledge, the unexpected concept transcends beyond the mere act of reading and calls for active participation in shaping our own stories.Together, these interpretations remind us of the transformative power of travel. It awakens our senses, exposes us to new ideas and perspectives, fosters empathy, and ultimately enriches our understanding of the world around us. We become active participants in the ongoing story, contributing our unique experiences and insights to the tapestry of human existence.Moreover, this philosophical concept highlights the interconnectedness of our individual narratives. Just as turning the pages of a book reveals a cohesive story, traveling and embracing new experiences unveil the interconnectedness of the world. The people we meet, the cultures we encounter, and the places we explore all have a role in shaping who we are and how we perceive the world.In conclusion, Saint Augustine's quote, "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page," holds immense meaning and importance. It urges us to step out of our comfort zones, explore diverse cultures, and actively participate in shaping our own stories. By embracing the transformative power of travel, we not only read multiple pages of the world but also become active participants in the interconnected narrative of humanity. So, let us set out on our journeys, turn the pages of life, and contribute to the ever-evolving story of the world.

Saint Augustine: 'Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.'

Saint augustine: 'faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe.'.

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To Augustine the World Is a Book, but Is It a Travel Book?

One of my father’s favorite jokes was to say a phrase of dubious meaning, and often questionable grammar, and tag William Shakespeare as the source. It went something like this:

No matter where you go, there you are . . . Shakespeare.

Seems that Dad was ahead of his time. All over the Interwebs, there are oft-used quotations attributed to oft-quoted people—Mark Twain, Martin Luther, Martin Luther King, Jr., Winston Churchill, Erma Bombeck . . . and Shakespeare. The trouble is, the pairings are oft-wrong.

Take, for instance, this popular quotation:

The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.

Nearly every online citation says it comes from the pen of St. Augustine, but as far as I can tell, no one has been able to find it in his writings.

The closest I’ve seen is in his  Letter 43 , written circa 397. While discussing schisms in the church in Africa and recounting some church history, he refers to the world as a book. But rather than using that as a metaphor to promote travel, he is proclaiming that the world shows the working out of biblical principles. Translated from Latin, he writes,

If, after all that you have read, you are still in doubt, be convinced by what you see. By all means let us give up arguing from ancient manuscripts, public archives, or the act of courts, civil or ecclesiastical. We have a greater book—the world itself. In it I read the accomplishment of that of which I read the promise in the Book of God: “The Lord hath said unto Me, and I shall give Thee the heathen for Thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for Thy possession.

Jump ahead to 1750, and Louis-Charles Fougeret de Monbron writes  Le Cosmopolite ou le Citoyen du Monde ( The Cosmopolitan or the Citizen of the World ), which opens with the following paragraph (as translated into English):

The universe is a sort of book, whose first page one has read when one has seen only one’s own country. I have leafed through a great many that I have found equally bad. This inquiry has not been at all unfruitful. I hated my country. All the oddities of the different people among whom I have lived have reconciled me to it. Should I gain no other benefit from my travels than this, I will have regretted neither the pains nor the fatigues.

British travel writer John Feltham joins our discussion with his publication of  English Enchiridion   in 1700. His collection of “apothegms, moral maxims. &c” includes one that seems to tie together Augustine and the thoughts of Fougeret de Monbron (it is not a direct quotation of either), and attempts to bring the early church father into the travel-writing fold:

St. Augustine, when he speaks of the great advantages of travelling, says, that the world is a great book , and none study this book so much as a traveller. They that never stir from their home read only one page of this book .

A few years later, Le Cosmopolite  caught the attention of the young poet Lord Byron. In a letter to R. C. Dallas in 1811, he writes, “I send you a  motto ” and quotes the work’s opening paragraph. He tells Dallas, “If not too long, I think it will suit the book.” The book turned out to be his Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage , published in installments from 1812 to 1818, and the passage, still in French, became the work’s epigraph.

And finally, in 1824, Thomas Fielding gave us a more familiar rendering of the phrase in his  Selected Proverbs of All Nations , crediting it to Augustine:

“The world is a great book, of which they that never stir from home read only a page.”

Simplify the language and you have “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” Oversimplify the authorship and you have Augustine.

Bring on the inspirational photos.

[photos: “ Atlas ,” by Ian Carroll, used under a Creative Commons license ; “ Dyrhólaey Arc ,” by Andrés Nieto Porras, used under a Creative Commons license ]

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3 thoughts on “ to augustine the world is a book, but is it a travel book ”.

Very well researched! Thank you for clearing this up!

Thanks! Glad you stopped by.

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Source of supposed augustine quote april 25, 2010 10:55 pm   subscribe.

Saint Augustine – Travel Quote of the Week

Saint Augustine [354-430] was an early Christian theologian and philosopher whose writings influenced both the development of Western Christianity and philosophy. He was bishop of Hippo, a Roman city in modern-day Algeria. His most famous works are The City of God and Confessions .

This week’s travel quote—“ The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page” —is often attributed to Saint Augustine of Hippo. Yet after doing some research, it appears that Saint Augustine never said anything quite like this. Rather, the closest he got was in praising the “book of the world”, a metaphorical description of nature, the study of which he saw as important in trying to understand God.

Nonetheless, this misquote has taken a life of it’s own, appearing in countless books on travel and many a Pinterest boards. And I think the idea it professes is worth discussing in and of itself.

The idea that one needs to explore the world to understand it is nothing new, dating back at least to the Ancient Greeks. Yet I think the concept has taken on new importance in our modern age, where you can virtually travel almost anywhere thanks to technology.

It’s tempting to just lay on the couch—60 inch flatscreen TV in front of you—living vicariously through the Travel Channel or Nat Geo. After all, real travel can be hard. It requires time, patience, money, and—occasionally—the use of your legs.

But YouTube videos (no matter how good they are ) or TV specials cannot replicate what it’s like to physically be somewhere. You can’t smell the eclectic scents of Marrakech’s spice market or feel the sand between your toes from a beach in Costa Rica.

Unfortunately, getting out of bed, much less traveling somewhere, can be hard. Despite my love for travel, I’ve been tempted to stay rather than leave before. I’ve created bullshit excuses in my mind and temporarily convinced myself it wasn’t the right time to go. On one occasion I skipped out on a free trip to Greece because I wanted to watch the NCAA Basketball Tournament. Ouch!

I urge you not to be like me. Don’t miss out on seeing the world because you’re stuck in front of the TV—even if it’s 4K.

I publish a new travel quote ever week, right here. Do you have a particular one you'd like us to feature in the future? What do you think about this quotation? Let us know in the comments below! 

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40 Mighty St. Augustine Quotes That Make You Think

“Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.”― Saint Augustine . Here are 40 Mighty St. Augustine Quotes.

St. Augustine Quotes

1. “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”―  St. Augustine

2.“Faith is to believe what you do not see; the reward of this faith is to see what you believe”― Saint Augustine     

3.“God loves each of us as if there were only one of us.”― Saint Augustine

4.“Pray as though everything depended on God. Work as though everything depended on you.”― Saint Augustine 

5.“Right is right even if no one is doing it; wrong is wrong even if everyone is doing it.”―  Saint Augustine             

6.“There is no saint without a past, no sinner without a future.”―  St. Augustine

7.“If you believe what you like in the Gospel, and reject what you don't like, it is not the Gospel you believe, but yourself.”―  Augustine 

8.“In order to discover the character of people we have only to observe what they love.”―  St. Augustine 

9. “God provides the wind, Man must raise the sail. ”― St. Augustine  

10.“Miracles are not contrary to nature but only contrary to what we know about nature.”―  St. Augustine

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“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page” Saint Augustine

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"The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page" Saint Augustine

By ekaterina khamyshkeeva, class 2022.

Have you ever wondered why travel is important? “All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware” Martin Buber. Some people in this world don’t see the point of traveling, and the most common excuse is it is a waste of time, money or it is scary to travel to places that are far away.

Travel is very important

People don’t recognize the importance and outlook of traveling. To me, I believe that traveling is very essential to all of us. It is very important to educate ourselves and know the countries around us and the different cultures and traditions. We need to see the outside world and look out of the box as St. Augustine said: “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” This quote suggests that each and every one of us should travel and see the outside world rather than just ours.

Too have a different perspective and discover things you have never seen before. With traveling, we become open-minded and experience life in many different places. I think that experience and traveling can be the best teacher. Now, when I am 26 years old, I have traveled quite a lot: Canada, USA, Russia, China, Mongolia, etc. In this article, I would like to talk about my travels in Taiwan and share my plans for future adventures.

Taiwan, a truly unique place

Firstly, I do not yet know a single place except Taiwan where in an hour's journey you can first be on the ocean coast and then high in the jungle with stunning views. In this regard, I consider Taiwan to be a truly unique place.

Secondly, traveling in Taiwan is incredibly easy. The transport system is very convenient. Most of the famous sites are easy to reach. For example, to get from the North to the South point takes only about 3 hours by High Speed Train. Trains run every 5-10 minutes, that is, in fact, you don't even need to wait. The train itself is very cool with different classes. For more comfort, you can buy a business class, if you want to save money, you can buy an unreserved seat. However, this train has only a few stops and one direction.

Take more time to travel

If you want to get to smaller cities or towns in Taiwan, there are regular local trains. It takes more time to travel on them, but you can get on them in almost any direction. Buses are the third form of public transport on the island. Sometimes, I prefer to choose them if I need to get somewhere in the morning. They are incredibly comfortable and run almost 24/7. Honestly, compared to most Russian buses, the difference is colossal.

Now, I would like to share which places on the island I have already visited and where I liked the most. The very first place where I went was, of course, the capital - Taipei. A very large and densely populated city. In Taipei, you can find anything you want, from food to any kind of entertainment. The infrastructure is amazing as the very modern buildings are connected with small cultural buildings.

In Taipei, you can travel everywhere by subway, buses or rent a bike. Most of all I liked the location near the tallest building in Taiwan - Taipei 101. All kinds of shops and shopping centers, restaurants with dishes from all over the world, street food and music. In general, if you want to be in the center of the traffic, you need to go there.

After that, I went to Taichung. Probably, of all the cities in Taiwan, it is the closest to the place where I would like to live. The city is not as big as Taipei, it is quieter and more peaceful, but the infrastructure is also developed. There are nightlife, restaurants and bars.

Next, I went to Tainan. Tainan is called the city of food and is also the oldest city on the island. Indeed, in this city, food is literally at every step, with the most varied and very affordable prices. Life in Tainan is more measured and calm. In this city I met my friends, with whom I went to travel further.

Kenting was my next stop. The weather there is just amazing. It is a small town right on the ocean. I could compare Kenting to small towns in California or Florida. People come to rest on Kenting and the activities there are appropriate.

For beach and water sports lovers, this place is just perfect. It is possible to go surfing or snorkeling or lie down enjoying the sun all day. There is also a main street with a night market and bars. For the convenience of moving between locations, you can rent a scooter.

However, my favorite place I've been so far is Taitung, about three hours drive by car from Kenting. There, for the first time I tried to stand on a surfboard. Also, the views and landscape are truly unforgettable. Also, from there we were able to get to the Green Island for snorkeling.

Honestly, this is an experience that everyone should try at least once in their life. It's incredible. After traveling in the south of the island, I went with my classmates north to Yilan. There, we visited a dog shelter, hot springs and cat island. We walked a lot and studied nature, a nice experience to remember.

To sum up about my travels, I would like to say that every place I have been in Taiwan is special, unique and amazing. This island opens up a new side for me with every trip. It is travel that allows you to get truly to know a new culture and meet amazing people. The next places I want to go are: Hualian, Tarokko and Alishan. I can't wait to hit the road again.

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“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”

Date posted.

Travel is an opportunity to read the world.  On each page, you might find a new, taste, flavour, scent, vision or sound that will make your world a richer place. On each page, you might meet new people, form new relationships, find and discover new languages. Of course, you will enjoy some ‘pages’ more than others – but even the parts you don’t enjoy at the time may have a profound effect on you later in life.

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” Saint Augustine

For the most part, travel is a fantastic experience. Seeing new places, be they man-made structures or areas of outstanding natural beauty can be truly inspirational. From the Taj Mahal to the Grand Canyon, from Kilimanjaro to the Sagrada Familia, our planet is endowed with an enormous array of jaw-dropping sights.

From a more practical perspective, being able to organise all aspects of a trip is a valuable life skill. Booking flights and accommodation is but the tip of the iceberg – the seasoned traveller has a full itinerary, and knows where to find the best bars and restaurants and the best deals on transport, food and activities. Pre-departure preparation includes finding out about vaccinations, visa restrictions and local language and currency.

On the topic of language, travel offers the perfect opportunity to chat, or at least communicate, with someone from a different cultural background.

Discovering common words or patterns is a treat for any linguist, as is picking up the basics of a previously unknown tongue – being able to say ‘thank you’ to a local shopkeeper or order  a coffee indicates that you are engaging with the world around you, and making an effort to communicate in a language not your own.

Not only does seeing a different country open your mind to new possibilities, it also helps you to see your own country or city with fresh eyes. You are more likely to notice everything that you previously took for granted, all the strange linguistic or cultural quirks that your thought were universal.

More than ever before, young people today have the opportunity to travel and see new places. Cheap flights, relaxed visa restrictions and greater exposure to new cultures mean it has never been easier to travel. Taking a break from work or study, or even working or studying abroad, has never been more popular. Young people in particular are increasingly keen to sample a new culture and try to get to grips with a second, or even third language- the benefits are both personal and professional.

All in all, travel offers a million and one different experiences – some positive, some less so – but all will help you develop as a person. Travel offers an opportunity to see new things, but also to see old things in new ways. Learning a language is a life skill that will help you to communicate, but also understand people and points of view that you may never have otherwise experienced.

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Home / The World Is Book And Those Who Do Not Travel…

The World Is Book And Those Who Do Not Travel…

“The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.”

Travelling is about seeing new places and having new experiences. Learning about yourself and others. You can’t do that as efficiently when you stay in one place!

The Quote Source

This travel quote comes from Saint Augustine, also known as Augustine of Hippo. He was an early christian theologist and philosopher. His writings greatly influenced western christianity and philosophy.

In the Catholic Church and Anglican Communion he is a Saint, a Doctor of the Church (doctor meaning teacher) and the patron of the Augustians. Some Protestant see him as one of the theological fathers due to his teachings on divine grace and salvation. He is the patron saint of theologians, printers and brewers.

What This Travel Quote Means To Me

For me, this travel quote means that those that do not travel do not see and experience much in their lives. When you travel you see so many different cultures, try new experiences, taste new dishes and do things you never thought you could. The ability to travel is there for everyone, all you need to do is turn the page.

If you stay in one place all your life, you never ‘turn a page’. You read and re-read the same thing. You don’t experience new and exciting things. Travelling allows you to ‘read page after page’ fully immersing yourself in ‘the book’ that is life.

So even if you only travel once in your life, or only go to one or two destinations, at least you have not been stuck on that one page. Even if you only travel your own country, at least you have fully read a chapter. It doesn’t matter how far you travel or how often, as long as you get off that first page from time to time!

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The World Is a Book and Those Who Do Not Travel Read Only a Page

The famous quote, “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only a page,” attributed to Saint Augustine, encapsulates the essence and importance of travel in one’s life. Traveling is not merely a leisurely activity; it is an enriching experience that broadens our horizons, exposes us to diverse cultures, and helps us grow as individuals. In this article, we will explore why traveling is essential, how it contributes to personal growth, and answer some frequently asked questions about traveling.

Why is Traveling Essential?

1. Cultural Understanding: Travel allows us to immerse ourselves in different cultures, enabling us to gain a deeper understanding of the world we live in. It provides an opportunity to interact with people from different backgrounds, learn about their traditions, and appreciate the diversity that exists in our global community.

2. Personal Growth: Traveling pushes us out of our comfort zones, challenging us to adapt to new environments and situations. It fosters independence, self-confidence, and resilience. By exposing ourselves to unfamiliar experiences, we learn to appreciate our own strengths and capabilities.

3. Perspective and Empathy: Stepping outside our familiar surroundings helps us gain a new perspective on life. It broadens our horizons and encourages us to question our preconceived notions. By encountering different lifestyles and witnessing the challenges faced by people around the world, we develop empathy and compassion for others.

4. Education: While formal education equips us with knowledge, traveling provides a practical education that cannot be acquired through books alone. It offers an opportunity to learn about history, art, architecture, and natural wonders firsthand. Exploring new destinations stimulates our curiosity and sparks a desire for lifelong learning.

5. Self-Discovery: Traveling allows us to discover who we truly are. When we step away from our daily routines and obligations, we have the chance to reflect on our lives, values, and aspirations. It can be a transformative experience that leads to self-realization and personal growth.

How Does Traveling Contribute to Personal Growth?

1. Independence and Adaptability: Traveling forces us to navigate unfamiliar territories, make decisions independently, and adapt to new situations. It cultivates resilience and problem-solving skills, fostering personal growth and self-reliance.

2. Cultural Sensitivity: Experiencing different cultures firsthand enhances our cultural sensitivity and understanding. It encourages us to respect and appreciate diverse traditions, customs, and values.

3. Confidence and Self-Esteem: Overcoming challenges and successfully navigating new environments boosts our confidence and self-esteem. Traveling pushes us to step out of our comfort zones, leading to personal growth and a sense of accomplishment.

4. Broadened Perspective: Traveling exposes us to different points of view, expanding our worldview. It encourages us to question our own beliefs and biases, leading to personal growth and an open-minded attitude.

5. Personal Connections: Through travel, we have the opportunity to meet people from different backgrounds and forge meaningful connections. These interactions broaden our social networks, expose us to diverse perspectives, and enrich our lives.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Traveling

Q: Is traveling expensive? A: Traveling can range from budget-friendly to luxurious, depending on individual preferences and choices. With proper planning, research, and budgeting, it is possible to find affordable travel options.

Q: Is it safe to travel alone? A: While solo travel can be a fulfilling experience, it is essential to take safety precautions and research the destination thoroughly. Informing family or friends about travel plans, staying vigilant, and following local laws and customs can help ensure a safe journey.

Q: Do I need to know the local language to travel? A: Knowing the local language can be beneficial, but it is not always necessary. Many popular travel destinations have locals who can communicate in English. Additionally, learning a few key phrases can go a long way in bridging language barriers and showing respect for the local culture.

Q: How do I choose a travel destination? A: Choosing a travel destination depends on personal preferences, interests, and budget. Consider factors such as climate, culture, history, activities, and safety when selecting a destination. Researching travel blogs, consulting travel agents, and seeking recommendations from friends can also help in decision-making.

Q: Can travel be educational for children? A: Yes, travel can be an excellent educational experience for children. It exposes them to different cultures, history, geography, and social dynamics. It broadens their worldview, fosters curiosity, and encourages them to embrace diversity.

In conclusion, the world is indeed a book, and those who do not travel read only a page. Traveling provides us with invaluable experiences, cultural understanding, personal growth, and a broader perspective on life. It is through exploring the world that we truly discover ourselves and learn to appreciate the beauty and diversity that surrounds us. So, let us embark on this journey, one destination at a time, and unlock the pages of the world’s book.

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The world is a book, those who do not travel read only one page.

• Thread starter thedpr2579
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• Jun 16, 2008

Hello, I am hoping somebody can help me. I am looking for a translation from E nglish to L atin. It is a quote from St Augustine , and I need it for a design: "The world is a book, those who do not travel read only one page." You help would be much appreciated.  

thedpr2579 said: Hello, I am hoping somebody can help me. I am looking for a translation from english to latin. It is a quote from St Augustine , and I need it for a design: "The world is a book, those who do not travel read only one page." You help would be much appreciated. Click to expand...

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St. Augustine Quote, The World Is a Book and Those Who Do Not Travel Read Only One Page Art Print, Unframed, Vintage Literary Highlighted Dictionary Page Wall Art Decor Poster Sign, 8x10 Inches

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Motivate and encourage someone with this 8x10 UNFRAMED reproduction graphically designed print of a dictionary page. We scan real pages from vintage dictionaries (thus they have some slight flaws) and then highlight the words and overlay our artistic design graphically. We DO NOT print directly onto the original dictionary pages, but offer a high quality print on Kodak Endura Lustre Photo paper that is ideal for framing. The Highlighted word on this page is TRAVEL.

• GREAT GIFTS- These dictionary photo prints make the perfect gift to encourage and inspire.
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• ARCHIVAL INKS- These are not original dictionary pages, but rather luster photo reproduction prints using archival inks that are made to last and look very authentic when framed!

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September 26, 2024 news on Hurricane Helene

What we covered here

• Helene makes historic landfall: Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida as a Category 4 storm and is now a Category 1 . It is the strongest hurricane on record to slam into Florida’s Big Bend. You can track Helene’s path with CNN’s storm tracker.

• A sprawling storm: Helene is one of the largest storms in the Gulf of Mexico in the last century, with a wind field that could span roughly the distance between Indianapolis and Washington, DC. Watches and warnings are in place for 60 million people in 12 states.

• “ Unsurvivable” storm surge: Storm surge — how high the water rises above normal levels — could climb to 20 feet along Florida’s Big Bend. The National Weather Service is warning of “ unsurvivable ” storm surge in Apalachee Bay.

• Widespread impacts: There have been at least three storm-related deaths . Catastrophic wind damage from the storm could cause power outages that will “likely last days, if not weeks.” Helene has also prompted school and business closures, as well as flight cancellations .

• In the path of Hurricane Helene? Bookmark CNN’s lite site for fast connectivity. Sigue nuestra cobertura en vivo del huracán en español.

Our live coverage of Hurricane Helene has moved here .

Hotel guests in Florida's Manatee County evacuated due to flooding from Hurricane Helene

Guests at a Ramada Inn in Manatee County, Florida, were evacuated as the hotel was flooded with water due to Hurricane Helene.

Manatee County is located on Florida’s west coast, and sits between Sarasota County and Hillsborough County, where Tampa is located.

Florida counties report extensive damage, severe flooding and downed power lines due to Hurricane Helene

As it made its historic landfall Thursday night, Helene was the strongest hurricane on record to slam into Florida’s Big Bend.

The storm — which has weakened from a Category 4 to a Category 1 — will continue to unleash life-threatening storm surge, flooding rainfall and destructive winds.

Helene has already had devastating impacts in Florida and Georgia: It’s led to at least three deaths, knocked down power lines and left more than 1.5 million in the dark, made traveling dangerous as roads are inundated with water, and disrupted emergency services in some counties.

Here’s how counties across Florida say they have been impacted by the sprawling storm:

• Charlotte County:  The emergency management office urged residents to stay off the roads because of widespread road flooding caused by storm surge. “There is no guarantee any road in the county will not have some level of flooding or dangerous debris during your trip,” the county said. The county said it removed personnel from the field due to the dangers posed by flooding, debris and high winds.
• Citrus County: Water accumulated on roadways in the county, and an influx of storm surge through the night is expected, the sheriff’s office said, urging drivers to avoid roads with standing water.
• Gadsden County: Downed trees and power lines were reported, the emergency services office said. Over 3,000 homes were without power as of early Friday morning.
• Hillsborough County: The sheriff’s office said it was monitoring high water levels at an intersection, and asked drivers to seek an alternate route.
• Levy County: The emergency management office halted emergency responses throughout the whole county “until such time that conditions are safe for our personnel to respond.”
• Sarasota County: North and south bridges to the city of Siesta Key were made impassable by severe flooding, the sheriff’s office said . The office “urges those on the key to shelter in place safely until the water levels recede.”
• Suwannee County: “Extreme destruction” was reported in the area, authorities said. Extensive damage was reported along the western side of the county, the sheriff’s office said . Trees fell on homes and there was severe structural damage. There were also many reports of trees and power lines down, causing “100% outages” throughout the county.
• Pasco County: About 40 people have been rescued from rising water, according to the  county Sheriff’s Office .

Six states have declared emergencies

Six states are under states of emergency as Hurricane Helene batters the Southeast after slamming into Florida’s Big Bend. The storm made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane and although it has now weakened to Category 1, torrential rains and ferocious winds have caused widespread damage to homes and infrastructure.

Storm watches and warnings are also in place for 60 million people in 12 states.

These states have declared emergencies:

• Florida: Gov. Ron Desantis said 61 of Florida’s 67 counties are currently under a state of emergency.
• Georgia: All 159 counties were placed under state of emergency, enabling emergency management teams to make necessary arrangements and position needed resources ahead of the storm’s arrival.
• North Carolina : Gov. Roy Cooper warned “Helene is an unusually dangerous storm that threatens to bring heavy rain and potentially catastrophic flooding” on Thursday night though Friday for central and western parts of of the state.
• South Carolina: Gov. Henry McMaster said: “ We will likely avoid the brunt of this storm, but it is still expected to bring flooding, high winds, and isolated tornadoes.”
• Alabama: President Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration for the state and ordered federal assistance to those affected by Helene.
• Virginia : Gov. Glenn Youngkin said the state “cannot ignore the fact that we have had significant flooding events arise from pre-cursory rain events and outer bands from tropical systems that drop locally heavy rainfall leading to flooding, especially in our southwestern region.”

Ever wonder how hurricanes are named? A CNN meteorologist explains

Hurricanes and tropical storms have been named for decades.

CNN meteorologist Elisa Raffa breaks down their history and how this year’s list was put together.

Residents told to shelter in place as power outages surge in southern Georgia county

Residents in Lowndes County in southern Georgia are being asked to shelter in place as power outages climb from Hurricane Helene.

Lowndes County sits on the Georgia-Florida border, about 60 miles from Tallahassee.

More than 1.8 million customers are without power across Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas as of 2:22 a.m. ET, according to  PowerOutage.US , as powerful Hurricane Helene churns through the Southeast.

Helene brings "unprecedented flooding" to Clearwater's coast, mayor says

Hurricane Helene has inundated the coastal community of Clearwater, Florida like never before, mayor Bruce Rector said.

All of the city’s roads were submerged, the mayor said, citing reports from police and the fire department.

“That caused unprecedented flooding on our coastal community,” he added.

Rector said he received calls from residents who decided to stay put, describing how worried they became as water reached their doorstep.

Rainfall measuring over 12 inches drenches areas in Florida, Georgia and North Carolina

Although Hurricane Helene has now weakened to Category 1 intensity with winds of 90 mph, it’s going to continue its track inland with heavy rains when it crosses through Atlanta, Georgia, and makes it way towards Tennessee.

Helene has already dumped substantial rainfall measuring well over a foot in some areas, according to data from the Weather Prediction Center:

• Sumatra, Florida: 15.50 inches
• Busick, Georgia: 13.74 inches
• Lake Toxaway, North Carolina: 13.73 inches

Helene continues weakening as it moves inland, now at Category 1 intensity

Hurricane Helene now has winds of 90 mph and is located about 30 miles north of Valdosta, Georgia, according to the 2 a.m. ET Thursday update from the National Hurricane Center.

The hurricane is moving quickly northeast at 26 mph and is expected to turn to the north overnight, bringing the storm’s center over central and northern Georgia Friday morning.

After that, Helene is expected to turn northwestward and slow down over the Tennessee Valley later today and Saturday.

“Although further weakening is expected, the fast forward speed will allow strong, damaging winds, especially in gusts, to penetrate well inland across the southeastern United States, including over the higher terrain of the southern Appalachians,” the hurricane center warned.

An automated station at Grassy Pond, Georgia, just south of Valdosta, recently reported a wind gust of 96 mph and the Savannah International Airport recently reported a wind gust of 75 mph.

Tornado watches remain in effect for nearly 20 million people across parts of South Carolina, Georgia and Florida through the next several hours.

Over 260,000 people under flash flood warning in North Carolina county

Over 260,000 people are under flash flood warning in Asheville, North Carolina.

The National Water Center warned flood inundation mapping suggests significant flooding along the Swannanoa River is possible.

Helene is "probably the worst" storm Sarasota has seen in a century, mayor says

Hurricane Helene could be the strongest storm that Sarasota, Florida has encountered in the past century, its mayor Liz Alpert said.

Alpert told CNN’s Michael Holmes that her city “is still looking very bad actually” despite the storm weakening after making landfall

She said she was “absolutely” afraid of what daylight would bring, saying that the city’s low-lying barrier islands had been fully submerged.

About 40 people rescued in Pasco County from rising waters due to Hurricane Helene

About 40 people have been rescued from rising water from Hurricane Helene in Pasco County, according to the  Pasco County Sheriff’s Office .

The rescues were made along the US Route 19 corridor by the sheriff’s office and the Pasco County Fire Rescue.

“Rescue boats continue to be loaded into the water to continue answering rescue related calls for service,” the sheriff’s office said.

Man paddles kayak through his home after Hurricane Helene floods Tampa Bay

A man has resorted to navigating his home in a kayak after Hurricane Helene flooded his uninsured residence in Tampa Bay.

Matt Heller told CNN that he initially thought he wouldn’t be affected by the storm, but then the water level rose suddenly.

A video he posted on social media showed him paddling through a room in his house on a purple kayak as plants, appliances and furniture float around him.

He had experienced flooding at home but this is the “biggest, biggest flood” he has ever had, Heller added.

Heller later described himself as a “typical Florida Man” who had ridden out multiple storms throughout his life.

More than 1.5 million customers without power across Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas

More than 1.5 million customers are without power across Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas, according to PowerOutage.US , as powerful Hurricane Helene churns through the Southeast.

Here’s their breakdown of customers without power across the southeast as of 1:35 a.m. ET:

• Florida: 1,282,585
• Georgia: 244,657
• South Carolina: 23,170
• North Carolina: 17,357

Helene weakens to Category 2 intensity, but remains dangerous and life-threatening

Hurricane Helene now has winds of 110 mph, according to the 1 a.m. ET update from the National Hurricane Center (NHC).

It is 10 miles southwest of Valdosta and is moving quickly northeast at 26 mph.

Even though it has weakened to Category 2 intensity, it continues to produce catastrophic winds that are now pushing into southern Georgia.

Recently an 88-mph wind gust was reported in southern Lowndes County in Georgia and despite the storm no longer being over land, a USGS tide gauge at Steinhatchee, Florida earlier reported a water level 9.6 feet above mean higher high water, indicating inundation in that area.

At least 3 killed as fierce Hurricane Helene makes landfall

Helene made a historic landfall as the strongest hurricane on record to slam into Florida’s Big Bend.

The Category 4 hurricane will continue to unleash life-threatening storm surge, flooding rainfall and destructive winds, and the National Weather Service has warned of “unsurvivable” storm surge in Apalachee Bay.

So far at least three deaths have been reported by authorities:

• Florida: One dead after a sign fell and hit a car driving on Interstate 4 near Ybor City in Tampa , according to Gov. Ron DeSantis.
• Georgia: Two killed after they were caught in a tornado related to the storm system from Hurricane Helene in Alamo , the city’s mayor told CNN.

Energy company anticipates Helene will cause “significant damage” to infrastructure in Florida Panhandle

Duke Energy — a company that provides power to several million Florida residents — says it anticipates Hurricane Helene will cause significant damage to its infrastructure in the Florida Panhandle and Big Bend area.

Duke Energy Florida said it supplies electricity to 2 million residential, commercial, and industrial customers across a 13,000-square-mile service area in Florida. The company said it has 8,000 crews stationed across the state.

More than 1.2 million homes and businesses in Florida were left in the dark as of Thursday night, according to poweroutage.us .

Helene made landfall as a Category 4 Hurricane in Florida. Here's what that means

Hurricane Helene made landfall near Perry, Florida, as a Category 4 storm with 140 mph sustained winds and higher gusts.

It’s the strongest hurricane on record to slam into Florida’s Big Bend. Its ferocious winds and heavy rainfall can cause widespread power outages and flooding in the Southeast, where the ground is already saturated by the previous day’s storms.

But what do these categories mean?

Hurricanes are rated 1 through 5 on the  Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale  based on their wind speed. Damage is exponential as wind speed increases, meaning a strong Category 3 storm could do up to 60 times as much damage as a weak Category 1 storm.

Here are the main risks you can expect with each category:

Category 1: 74-95 mph

Sustained winds are enough to blow shingles off roofs and damage gutters and vinyl siding. These winds also can uproot trees and bring down branches, causing power outages and more property damage. They can damage power lines, too.

Category 2: 96-110 mph

Winds this strong can cause as much as 20 times the damage as those of a Category 1 storm, including extensive damage to a home’s roof and siding.

Numerous trees and power lines will most likely be damaged, blocking roads, damaging property and knocking out power for days, if not weeks.

Category 3: 111-129 mph

Now in “major hurricane” territory, wind damage is much more widespread. Well-built homes and other buildings could suffer major damage, and roofs will sustain heavy damage. Numerous trees will be damaged or uprooted. Electricity and water could be shut off for several days.

Category 4: 130-156 mph

Catastrophic damage can result from these winds. Well-built homes will be heavily damaged, with most of the roof blown away. Trees and power lines will be down. Water and power services could be out for months, with the hardest-hit places uninhabitable for weeks.

Category 5: 157 mph or greater

These are the most powerful storms on Earth. Most well-built homes will be destroyed, and many will be stripped to the foundation. Power outages could last for months, and the areas hardest hit could be uninhabitable for months.

Florida governor asks residents to stay indoors and warns of dangerous conditions

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has asked residents to stay indoors and off roadways as significant storm surge from Hurricane Helene floods streets and causes hazardous conditions.

Significant storm surge in parts of Florida, particularly in Southwest Florida and the Tampa Bay area, is causing flooding on streets and making travel hazardous, the governor said in a news conference in Tallahassee Thursday night.

Helene is expected to continue flooding streets up and down the west coast of Florida, he added.

Major bridges in areas like Tampa Bay have been closed, and the Florida Department of Transportation will inspect and reopen them once it is safe, the governor said.

Given how quickly Helene is moving through the state, DeSantis urged residents to remain indoors to avoid dangerous conditions, including flooding, downed trees and power lines.

Tampa General Hospital's "AquaFence" is working to protect it from Helene

Tampa General Hospital, which houses some of the most critical patients in western Florida, put up a protective wall ahead of Hurricane Helene’s landfall to shield it from some of the storm’s impacts.

Dubbed “AquaFence,” the shield can withstand gusts of up to 130 mph and storm surges of up to 15 feet above sea level.

Dustin Pasteur, vice president of the hospital’s facilities and construction division, told CNN that up to 800 patients remained on site after they discharged less critical patients.

The hospital deployed 60 staff members to put up the wall over the course of three days.

More than a million customers without power in Florida

More than 1 million customers are without power in Florida after Hurricane Helene made landfall late Thursday night, according to  PowerOutage.US .

Here’s their breakdown of customers without power across the southeast as of 11:32 p.m. ET:

• Florida: 1,036,553
• Georgia 46,040
• North Carolina: 12,427
• Virginia: 7,221
• South Carolina: 5,540

Two people dead in Georgia tornado related to Hurricane Helene 

Two people have died in Alamo, Georgia after they were caught in a tornado related to the storm system from Hurricane Helene, the city’s mayor told CNN.

Alamo is a little over 75 miles outside Macon, Georgia.

Tallahassee mayor warns of tree fall risks as Helene makes landfall

As Hurricane Helene makes landfall, Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey tells CNN’s Lauren Coates: “None of us have experienced a Category 4 hurricane this close.”

“We are not a coastal community, we’re about 30 miles in from the coast, so we’re not as concerned with the storm surge for Tallahassee as much as we are known for our trees,” Dailey said.

“Trees and power lines and winds do not mix, so we are reminding the resident and quite frankly … recovery is going to take a while it is not going to be a sprint. It’s going to be a marathon.”

The potential for flash floods is on the rise as heavy rainfall drenches already saturated ground of the city, on top of the mayor’s main concerns of power outages, structural damage and downed trees.

Dailey also reiterated residents to shelter in place and the city is prepared to clean up the damage once the situation is safe after the storm passes.

Hurricane force winds will extend across a "couple counties" in Florida, governor says

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says hurricane force winds are going to extend across a “couple counties” to the east and west of Taylor County, causing damage and downed trees.

Strong wind gusts are likely to hit Jefferson, Wakulla and Leon counties, Desantis said.

“I would imagine that you’re going to see a lot of wind damage, probably in the northern part of the state,” the governor said in a news conference in Tallahassee Thursday night.

"Holy sh*t!" CNN team captures wicked winds and flying debris

CNN’s Michael Yoshida and team captured flying debris outside of their hotel in Steinhatchee, Florida, moments before Hurricane Helene made its historic landfall.

Fatality reported on Tampa-area interstate, governor says

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says one person died after a sign fell and hit a car driving on Interstate 4 near Ybor City in the Tampa area.

“So that just shows you that it’s very dangerous conditions out there,” the governor said in a news conference Thursday night. “You need to be, right now, just hunkering down. Now is not the time to be going out.”

DeSantis did not provide further details on the incident or the person who died. He said he believes there will likely be more deaths because of the storm’s strength.

Hurricane Helene makes a historic landfall

Hurricane Helene made landfall near Perry, Florida, as a Category 4 with 140 mph sustained winds and higher gusts, according to the National Hurricane Center.

It’s the strongest hurricane on record to slam into Florida’s Big Bend.

The hurricane will continue to unleash life-threatening storm surge, flooding rainfall and destructive winds both near and well-removed from where its center came ashore.

Helene will maintain hurricane strength as it tracks into southern Georgia overnight. It will gradually weaken as it races north through the state, ending up in Tennessee by Friday afternoon, likely as a tropical storm at the time.

Helene’s torrential rain and strong winds could cause widespread power outages and flooding in the Southeast, where the ground is already saturated by the previous day’s storms.

Hurricane Helene is very close to landfall in Big Bend

Helene remains a powerful Category 4 hurricane with winds of 140 mph as of 11 p.m. ET, according to the National Hurricane Center. The hurricane’s eye has started to come ashore in Florida’s Big Bend region, meaning the landfall process has begun.

Landfall will not be official until at least half of the eye comes ashore — likely within the next 30 minutes.

Regardless, torrential rain, destructive winds and dangerous storm surge are ongoing.

Downed trees and power lines reported in Florida's Alachua County as Helene inches closer

Alachua County officials have reported downed trees and power lines as Helene — a Category 4 hurricane — inches closer.

Alachua County is in the north central portion of Florida and approximately 65 miles east of the Florida Gulf Coast.

Record storm surge pushes water to highest level ever in Tampa Bay

Hurricane Helene has pushed water levels at all five Tampa area tide gauges to levels never before observed, with records going back to at least 1950.

Even though Helene’s eye never got within 100 miles of Tampa Bay, the massive size of the storm and the increasing winds on Thursday built up a powerful surge that is still bringing levels higher late on Thursday night.

• Old Port Tampa: 5.5 ft (old record 4.8 feet from Hurricane Idalia 2023)
• East Bay Tampa: 5.93 ft (old record 4.56 feet Hurricane Idalia 2023)
• St. Petersburg: 5.47 ft (old record 3.97 feet from Hurricane Elena 1983)
• Port Manatee: 5.58 ft (old record 3.69 feet Hurricane Idalia 2023)
• Clearwater Beach: 6.3 ft (old record 4.02 feet 1993 Storm of the Century)

Water levels in all locations are still rising as of 10:30 p.m. ET.

More than 800,000 customers without power in Florida and Georgia ahead of landfall

More than 800,000 customers are without power in Florida and Georgia as Hurricane Helene prepares to make landfall, according to  PowerOutage.US .

As of 10:45 p.m. ET, 788,318 homes and businesses were without power in Florida, and 25,058 customers were experiencing outages in Georgia.

The Category 4 storm is on pace to make landfall in the 11 p.m. ET hour.

Hi-res data captures where Helene's strongest winds are located

Hurricane Helene is unleashing violent winds in every direction, but its strongest winds are on its eastern side, a new graphic from NOAA shows.

White and purple coloring represents the strongest winds. Winds are blowing at more than 111 mph in white areas.

Florida fire station suspends services as Hurricane Helene nears landfall

Cedar Key Fire Rescue has suspended services as Hurricane Helene inches closer to Florida’s coast as a Category 4 Hurricane, according to a  statement posted Thursday.

“Cedar Key Fire has suspended services until the Hurricane passes. Hurricane Helene is a Cat 4 with 130 mph. The current track shows it coming within 70 miles of Cedar Key.” the statement said.

The storm’s reported wind speed was measured at 140 mph at 9 p.m.

Hurricane Helene's eyewall is starting to come ashore

Helene remains a violent Category 4 hurricane with 140 mph winds as of 10 p.m. ET, according to the National Hurricane Center. Its eyewall – where its most ferocious winds are located – has started to push over the coast in Florida’s Big Bend region.

Powerful winds will pound the region for the next few hours and deliver life-threatening, potentially unsurvivable storm surge. A r are extreme wind warning is in effect for parts of the Big Bend.

Helene is still on pace to make landfall – when at least half of its eye moves over land – in the 11 p.m. ET/10 p.m. CT hour.

In pictures: Hurricane Helene closes in on Gulf Coast

Images from earlier Thursday show preparations, storm surge and strong winds.

See more photos  here .

"We’re probably going to lose a lot of lives," National Hurricane Center official says

Hurricane Helene will likely be a “historic inland flooding event” – and a deadly one, Jamie Rhome, deputy director of the National Hurricane Center, told CNN’s Anderson Cooper Thursday.

Rhome added if “our worst-case scenario materializes,” some areas of Florida’s Big Bend will see a 15-foot storm surge.

As the storm makes its way up to Georgia, residents there should be prepared to go long periods without power, he said. Heavily forested areas will likely see many trees downed and, in turn, widespread power outages.

“People have got to be ready to take care of themselves for several days without power,” Rhome said.

Here's when Helene is expected to make landfall

Dangerous Category 4 Hurricane Helene is racing toward the Florida coast and the center of its eye is about 40 to 50 miles from the Big Bend region. Half of the hurricane’s eye must cross over land for landfall to be declared.

Helene will likely make landfall in the 11 p.m. ET/10 p.m. CT hour.

Lee County authorities launch boat for water rescue

In howling winds and rising storm surge, Lee County marine deputies launched their boat for a water rescue along Fort Myers Beach, Sheriff Carmine Marceno said on X.

Hundreds still not evacuated in Big Bend county as Hurricane Helene heads toward state, official says

Hundreds of people in Taylor County, Florida, have told officials they have not evacuated ahead of Hurricane Helene making landfall in the region, Emergency Management Director John Louk told CNN’s Anderson Cooper.

The county has asked residents who have not evacuated to send in an email alerting officials where they are, he said.

Located in Florida’s Big Bend, Taylor County is southeast of Tallahassee.

Rare extreme wind warning issued

Parts of Florida’s Big Bend region are now under an extreme wind warning.

This type of warning is the most severe, most urgent alert for wind.

“This means to expect high winds of 115 mph or greater due to the eyewall of a major hurricane,” the National Weather Service in Tallahassee warned. “Treat this warning like a tornado warning.”

New tornado watch issued

A new tornado watch was issued for more than 8.5 million people in parts of the Carolinas and Georgia until 8 a.m. Friday.

Many tornado warnings have been issued Thursday with multiple confirmed tornadoes in the Southeast.

Helene is still strengthening

Hurricane Helene now has sustained winds of 140 mph, an increase of 10 mph from just an hour ago, according to the National Hurricane Center. It remains a dangerous Category 4 hurricane.

Helene is just 65 miles west of Cedar Key, Florida, and 90 miles south of Tallahassee.

Sinkholes pose concern for Asheville’s emergency response

The Asheville Fire Department is working on the fly to create a database of potholes that have materialized in the heavy rainfall, posing a danger to both evacuees and first responders.

“Roadways are being undermined,” said Fire Chief Mike Cayse. “Especially if they’re underwater when you can’t even see it.”

The department doesn’t have a “good grasp” on the number of potholes in the city, Cayse said, but they are on major roads and commuter roads. There’s also one on Interstate 26 and officials may need to close part of the freeway in order to repair it, he said.

“Our people here are gonna live through some tough times tonight and the next days as we move forward,” Cayse said.

More than half a million customers without power in Florida as Helene barrels toward the state

More than half a million customers are without power in Florida as Hurricane Helene inches closer to landfall Thursday evening, according to  PowerOutage.US .

There are 527,862 homes and businesses throughout the state experiencing an outage as of 8:33 p.m. ET.

“Extremely dangerous” conditions, a “catastrophic storm surge” and “life-threatening winds” are expected in Florida’s Big Bend area,  according to  the National Hurricane Center.

Worst-case storm surge would push ocean 20 miles inland

Officials are concerned Helene’s massive storm surge will reach far inland. Storm surge is caused by a hurricane’s strong, onshore winds that push ocean onto land.

“In Wakulla County, the models show us that 20 feet storm surge will push water 20 miles from the coast and possibly into south Leon County and into Tallahassee to the north,” Wakulla County Commissioner Ralph Thomas told CNN’s Anderson Cooper.

Wakulla County is south of Tallahassee.

Currently, the county is seeing water levels rise in the rivers and coastal areas. Some roads are already underwater, Thomas added.

Threat of landslides and buildings collapsing is keeping Asheville Fire Chief up at night

The threat of landslides and buildings collapsing due to compromised foundations is worrying Asheville Fire Chief Mike Cayse the most, as Hurricane Helene lumbers north.

Direct messages have been sent to owners of about 2,400 homes and businesses in the city, warning them they are in imminent danger and should evacuate immediately.

Because more than 10 inches of rain has fallen in Asheville from a previous storm, the soil cannot absorb more water when the outer bands of Helene reach the city, Cayse explained. When the saturated soil shifts, it can take a building’s foundation with it, undermining the structure.

“As a result of their foundations being undermined and the shifting of the ground, we’re absolutely very concerned about building collapses and landslides,” Cayse said.

While he feels confident in his firefighters’ ability to conduct floodwater rescues, federal search and rescue teams have been brought in to help in the event of building collapses or landslides.

She was pregnant during Idalia. Now she's riding out Helene with her baby.

It was around this time last year that Jules Carl was pregnant and sticking it out in Steinhatchee as Hurricane Idalia — a weak Category 3 — was lashing the Big Bend of Florida with winds up to 115 mph.

Thirteen months later, she’s riding out another storm with her hurricane baby, Kai.

But this storm is a lot bigger, and a lot stronger.

Hurricane Helene is “unbelievably huge,” Carl told CNN as she noted the winds were picking up around her home.

Carl is hunkering down with her husband, three kids and pets.

“We’re prepared for the worst,” Carl said, adding they have food and water and have prepped their house.

Carl said this is the seventh hurricane she has ridden out since moving to Florida 10 years ago.

She said they decided not to evacuate to be with their belongings, and they feel safe and prepared where they are.

“This little town took on two hurricanes in just the past year,” Carl said. “It’s been really rough, but we’re a tight-knit community.”

Helene is already generating storm surge. It's going to get worse

Helene’s violent winds are driving storm surge along most of Florida’s western coast Thursday evening. The following are the current approximate surge levels for a few locations:

• Tampa Bay (East Bay): 5.5 feet
• St. Petersburg: 5 feet
• Clearwater Beach: 5 feet
• Fort Myers: 5 feet
• Cedar Key: 4 feet
• Apalachicola: 3.5 feet

High tide occurs in the next few hours for many of these locations. With Helene expected to make landfall around the same time, some surge values could reach their worst-case scenarios.

Up to 20 feet of surge is possible in Florida’s Big Bend region where Helene will come ashore. Up to 10 feet is possible slightly farther down the coast with up to 8 feet possible in the Tampa Bay area. Some stations could record record-breaking surge .

What a CNN meteorologist is doing to prepare for Helene

CNN Meteorologist Chad Myers shared some precautions he’s taking in Georgia ahead of Hurricane Helene, including stocking his freezer with bottles of water in case power goes out.

Residents can also take measures to protect their homes from the dangerous winds unleashed by Helene, Myers added. Closed garage doors should have a barrier pushed up against them from the inside to prevent the door from flying into the garage and potentially bringing the house down, he said.

“Push something up there… That whole thing pushes, and then you lose your house because you lost your garage door,” Myers said.

Tallahassee mayor bracing for "most powerful storm" to hit city in "written history"

Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey tells CNN’s Erin Burnett his city is taking Hurricane Helene very seriously, as it could be “the most powerful storm ever to hit the city of Tallahassee in written history.”

He said the college town, which is home to Florida State University, Florida A&M University and others, has been preparing for the last week, tripling its workforce. He praised the universities for swiftly evacuating students.

The mayor’s main concerns are power outages, structural damage and downed trees.

"Do not go outside": Tampa officials tell residents to shelter in place

Tampa officials once again emphasized the importance of heeding warnings ahead of Hurricane Helene’s landfall in Florida.

She warned that Tampa is already “in the throes of Hurricane Helene,” adding that storm surge and wind gusts in the city are “going to get worse.”

Tampa Police Chief Lee Bercaw said “now is the time to stay home,” as officials tell those within the storm’s path to shelter in place.

“Do not go outside,” Bercaw said. “Our first responders are out there. If you go outside, if you travel or if you go near water, you’re putting our first responders at risk.”

Meanwhile, officials in the nearby city of St. Petersburg are telling residents to expect the worst winds from 6 to 8 p.m. ET tonight, and that storm surge will peak around midnight. Flood rescue teams are positioned throughout the city in case they are needed.

St. Petersburg’s Northeast Water Reclamation Facility might have to shut down if storm surge reaches 7 feet at the site, Mayor Ken Welch warned. If the plant must be turned off, it will take at least 48 hours to get it back up and running, he said.

Tallahassee's weather radar can see Helene's eye

Hurricane Helene is quickly approaching the Florida coast. In fact, it’s gotten so close that the weather radar in Tallahassee can clearly capture the hurricane’s entire eye.

The eye is the hurricane’s center and it’s an area of relatively calm weather surrounded by the storm’s fiercest winds in the eyewall. In this radar loop, Helene’s eye is a blank circle surrounded by heavy rain – denoted by greens, yellows and oranges.

More than 320,000 customers without power in Florida as Helene barrels toward the state

Power outages are affecting more than 320,000 customers in Florida as Hurricane Helene strengthened to a Category 4 storm hours ahead of its expected landfall in the Sunshine State.

As of Thursday evening, nearly 12,500 customers are without power in Georgia, while more than 15,500 residents are experiencing outages in North Carolina, according to  PowerOutage.us . The outages there include those from storms late Wednesday and through Thursday, before Helene’s impact.

South Carolina is also experiencing power outages, but at a much lower scale, with more than 2,200 customers affected.

Helene rapidly intensifies ... again

Hurricane Helene has now rapidly intensified for the second time, with its top-end winds increasing by 45 mph in the past 24 hours. Rapid intensification occurs when a system’s maximum winds increase 35 mph or more in 24 hours or less.

Its first official bout of rapid intensification unfolded from Tuesday morning to Wednesday morning as Helene went from a low-end tropical storm to a Category 1 hurricane.

From there it took Helene less than 36 hours to strengthen from a Category 1 hurricane Wednesday morning to a violent Category 4 hurricane Thursday evening.

Helene’s rapid intensifications were fueled by the extremely warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricanes are more likely to get supercharged by abnormally warm waters as the world warms due to fossil fuel pollution.

Helene could be the strongest storm on record for the Big Bend region

If Hurricane Helene maintains its Category 4 strength, at least 130 mph, it will be the strongest storm make landfall in Florida’s Big Bend – the marshy crook of coastline that connects the panhandle and the peninsula.

A slightly weaker storm dubbed the “Cedar Key Hurricane” made landfall there in 1896 while packing 125 mph sustained winds.

Idalia thrashed the Big Bend last year as a Category 3 hurricane with 115 mph winds.

The last Category 4 hurricane to make landfall in the US was 2022’s  Ian , which came ashore in South Florida and unleashed immense destruction.

Hi-res satellite shows Cat 4 Helene's powerful, lightning-filled eyewall

High-resolution satellites are capturing the incredible evolution of Hurricane Helene’s eyewall. Intense lightning is seen as the storm gains even more energy and strength from the warm water of the Gulf of Mexico.

Hurricane Helene has strengthened to a Category 4 hours ahead of Florida landfall

Helene’s winds have increased to 130 mph, making the storm a Category 4.

Florida has emergency response in place as Helene approaches landfall, governor says

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis says the state has people and resources in place to immediately respond to the aftermath of Hurricane Helene as it approaches making landfall tonight.

The governor encouraged people in evacuation zones to get out while there is still time, warning specifically of life-threatening storm surge in parts of the Big Bend areas of Florida.

Helene has rapidly intensified today while nearing the Florida Big Bend. It is currently a Category 3 storm, but could be a Category 4 at landfall , according to the National Hurricane Center.

DeSantis said electrical lineworkers from various companies are staged throughout the state. He said residents should expect to lose power in the storm. There are also more than 100 generators at gas stations, which the governor said will minimize disruption to fuel.

National Guard soldiers, Florida State Highway Patrol troopers and personnel from the Department of Transportation are also ready to respond, DeSantis said.

Biden issues urgent warning to people in Helene's path

President Joe Biden issued an urgent warning to residents affected by Hurricane Helene Thursday, highlighting steps his administration has already taken to prepare, while urging people in the storm’s path to heed guidance from local and federal officials.

The president pointed to pre-landfall emergency declaration requests already approved for Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Alabama, while touting a wide array of federal resources being deployed. More than 1,000 personnel, search and rescue teams, medical teams, power restoration teams, generators, water, food are already on the ground across the region.

“But let me say this: Everyone needs to take it seriously, extremely seriously. The potential storm surge is well beyond the immediate path of the hurricane, it could be significant and deadly,” he warned. “For you and your family’s sake, I encourage everyone in and near the path of the hurricane to listen to local officials and follow evacuation orders if being told to do so.”

More than 200,000 customers without power in Florida

More than 200,000 customers are without power in Florida as  Hurricane Helene  barrels through the Gulf of Mexico Thursday, according to  PowerOutage.US .

There are more than 225,000 homes and businesses that are without power in the state as of 5:30 p.m. ET.

Most of the outages are in southwest Florida, where tropical storm-force wind gusts have been reported. Power outages will continue to climb as the storm’s massive wind field spreads across the Southeast on Thursday and into Friday.

Harris urges people in the path of Helene "to take this storm very seriously"

Vice President Kamala Harris urged people in the path of Hurricane Helene to heed guidance from local officials as the storm, which forecasters have warned could reach Category 4 strength before landfall, barrels towards Florida.

Write your name and D.O.B. on your leg so your body can be IDed

Emergency managers in Taylor County, Florida, are not messing around.

The officials, who oversee low-lying towns including Steinhatchee and Perry, posted on Facebook Thursday afternoon to ask all residents who chose not to evacuate to grab a permanent marker and write their name and date of birth on their leg.

The unspoken message: You will not survive this. Help us identify you.

Officials also asked friends and relatives of people who did not evacuate to reach out and share the information, so search and rescue teams know where to focus their efforts when the storm passes.

Helene could be a Category 4 at landfall — but either way, this storm is a monster

In its 5 p.m. ET update, the National Hurricane Center noted that Hurricane Helene will continue to strengthen as it tracks north over the uber-warm water of the Gulf of Mexico, and will likely be at or near Category 4-strength when it makes landfall later tonight.

But no matter what, this storm is already a monster. Its wind field spans hundreds of miles. Storm surge is already pushing onto Florida’s Gulf Coast from the Tampa area northward. Flooding is going to be catastrophic in some parts of the Southeast. Officials have pleaded with coastal residents to evacuate.

Even if Helene doesn’t top another category, it will still be one of the most devastating storms we’ve seen thrash the Gulf Coast in recent years.

Striking video shows high winds and powerful storm surge that closed Florida bridges

Tampa’s Skyway Bridge and Howard Frankland Bridge are both closed due to Hurricane Helene’s high winds and powerful storm surge, according to the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).

In a shaky video shared by the FHP’s Tampa office Thursday on X, strong waves can be seen crashing on the Howard Frankland Bridge, even as drivers continued to make their way across. It was not immediately clear what time the video, which appeared to be from a fixed traffic camera, was taken.

The law enforcement agency warned drivers to “stay off the highways.”

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge connects Pinellas and Manatee counties over Tampa Bay via I-275. The Howard Frankland Bridge connects St. Petersburg and Tampa

CNN’s Carlos Suarez contributed reporting.

How do homeowners keep their homes protected in Florida? It’s costing them more

With Hurricane Helene barreling toward Florida, one public adjuster said homeowners in the state will be faced with new challenges in the aftermath of the storm.

Itay Levy, who is based in South Florida and has more than 25 years of experience, said he has noticed a big change in the Sunshine State in the past year. Last year specifically, the new way lawyers can sue insurance companies is creating consequences for homeowners.

Levy explains this legal change prompts insurance companies to deny almost all claims. He said he thinks this is an over-correction to the industry, which will end up costing homeowners out of pocket.

“The attorneys were charging way too high of statutory fees and making a killing. This was draining the insurance companies and costing us higher rates,” Levy said.

But, it doesn’t work the other way around either. Without statutory fees, insurance companies don’t have an urgency to settle claims on losses. Levy said there needs to be a “happy medium.”

Insurance companies have struggled to stay afloat, battered by elevated inflation and the growing frequency of catastrophic storms made worse by climate change. It’s made it tougher for homeowners to find affordable insurance options.

Levy said in the case of Hurricane Helene, homeowners should expect “underpayment and a battle to get more money.”

Waffle House preemptively closed some locations in Helene's path. Here's why that's a big deal

Waffle House confirmed it has preemptively closed locations in Florida, but did not provide specific numbers or locations.

Anyone in the South knows – if the Waffle House closes, it means the storm is getting serious. The Waffle House Index is an  unofficial measure by a former FEMA official to evaluate how severely a storm hit an area .

“In areas predicted to be hardest hit, we will preemptively close restaurants with a goal of reopening them as soon as it is safe to do so,” Njeri Boss, Waffle House’s vice president of food safety and public relations, said in an email.

Local media  reports  at least one Waffle House location in Tallahassee has closed, and locations in the area are currently not accepting online orders. Locations around Panama City Beach and some locations in the Tampa Bay area, as well as a few locations in southern Georgia, have also shut down online ordering.

“If mandatory evacuations have been called for, we follow them. So, at this time we continue to monitor the situation and will act accordingly,” Boss said.

Waffle House has a reputation of staying open during natural disasters, even when other restaurants are closed. The index uses a color-coded key to evaluate the degree of damage done to an area and what resources the area will need, based on the Waffle House schedule.

Red:  Waffle House is closed completely. If Waffle House is closed, that area was probably hardest hit.

Yellow:  Waffle House is open, but they’re serving a limited menu. This could mean the area is experiencing power outages or water isn’t safe to drink, but people can get around.

Green:  Waffle House is up and running at peak condition. This doesn’t mean everything’s perfect in the area, but it’s a sign that basic services are intact.

CNN’s Scottie Andrew contributed to this report.

Hurricane Hunters soar inside strengthening Helene

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Hurricane Hunters soared into Hurricane Helene as it strengthened Thursday morning, giving people a bird’s-eye view into the massive storm hurtling through the Gulf of Mexico.

Asheville river is primed for life-threatening flooding

The Swannanoa River in Asheville, North Carolina, is already raging beyond its banks after torrential rain fell Wednesday night.

Officials are urging people to evacuate before Hurricane Helene’s rain starts this evening.

“This next wave is just going to be even worse because there’s nowhere for the water to be soaked up or go,” Asheville Fire Chief Michael Cayse told CNN Thursday afternoon.

East Tennessee bracing for Helene landfall as significant rain, damaging winds expected

Flooding in East Tennessee on Wednesday from slow moving, heavy rainfall will intensify this evening and throughout the weekend as Hurricane Helene travels toward the state, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency said.

Rainfall Wednesday prompted several flood watches and warnings in East Tennessee by the National Weather Service, as well as evacuation and sheltering of several households in Mountain City last night, but it is not associated with Helene, the agency said.

A specialized Swiftwater Rescue Team was deployed from Tennessee to Florida to assist with hurricane response, which includes 17 personnel from various fire and emergency agencies to help with water rescues and emergency services in the Pensacola area, the agency said.

Georgia warns against fraudsters taking advantage of residents after the storm

Georgia Insurance Commissioner John King warned people in the incoming storm’s path to stay vigilant when it comes to potential bad actors following Helene’s landfall.

He advised people to only do necessary repairs on their properties immediately following the storm “to make sure there’s no further damage to your property.”

“Take your time,” he told Valdes. “If there’s any doubt, reach out to our agency, to the local authorities.”

King said officials will be out in hard-hit areas distributing information, and insurance companies will also be on the ground following the storm to help affected people start claims.

FSU student describes sheltering in conference room upgraded for extreme weather as Helene approaches

Anastasia Russel, 18, is one of the students riding out Hurricane Helene at Florida State University in Tallahassee, Florida.

Students remaining on campus are sheltering-in-place inside the university’s Augustus B. Turnbull Conference Center, which was newly “upgraded to withstand extreme conditions,” according to  FSU Alert .

“The conference center facility includes hurricane shutters and debris curtains on windows and well as emergency generators large enough to power air handler units in the facility,” according to the alert website.

Russel told CNN she’s a little worried her dorm might get destroyed. She’s also not looking forward to sleeping in the conference center tonight.

“Yeah, it’s rough,” she said. “I just miss my bed.”

Russel arrived at the conference center around 10:15 a.m. Thursday with her suitcase. She said students were told to bring one bag each.

Since then, she’s been playing chess, cards and watching movies like Sharknado to pass the time with the other students there. FSU has given them sandwiches and juice so far, according to Russel.

“I brought plenty of snacks so hopefully it’ll hold me over and we can leave tomorrow morning,” she said. “We have to stay here until FSU gets the all clear.”

Flash flood warning issued for Atlanta

More than 2 million people in Georgia – including the Atlanta metro – are under a flash flood warning as heavy rainfall drenches the area.

Flash flooding trapped residents in Asheville. The next wave will “be even worse"

After facing torrential downpours even before Hurricane Helene makes landfall, the mountain town of Asheville, North Carolina, is preparing for what could be record-breaking flooding , the weather services says.

The fire department made several water rescues overnight. Some drivers got trapped after they drove into standing water, Cayse said. Crews also rescued a kayaker who was suddenly overpowered by fast-moving water.

At Biltmore Village, one of the most famous tourist areas in the region, the Swannanoa River is expected to reach a record depth of 21 feet Friday – breaking a century-old record of 20.7 feet. That’s more than double the river’s flood stage of 10 feet.

Watch lightning flash near Helene's center

Thunderstorms rumbling near the center of Helene put on a show this afternoon as the hurricane continued to strengthen.

Asheville residents urged to evacuate ahead of anticipated flooding

Asheville, North Carolina residents are being urged to evacuate ahead of what is expected to be historic flooding in the area. Buncombe County officials want everyone in affected areas to get out before the rivers crest Friday night into Saturday.

“If you are in an impacted area, you should leave now,” said Emergency Services Director Taylor Jones. “It’s possible we may get to a point where our crews will not physically be able to perform rescues. We cannot emphasize how much you should take this seriously.”

Record-breaking flooding is expected in what meteorologists at the National Weather Service are calling “one of the most significant weather events to happen in the … modern era” in this region.

The ground around Asheville is already soaked with more than 8 inches of rain since Wednesday evening. What Helene is about to bring will tip this area way over the edge; as much as 20 inches of rain is possible between what fell yesterday and the hurricane. Meteorologists are comparing the forecast  to the 1916 floods in Asheville .

Georgia governor warns citizens to stay off roads and prepare for extreme weather

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp urged all citizens to stay off the roads and prepare emergency supplies — including food and water — as Hurricane Helene approaches.

Extreme weather conditions are expected in Georgia, including heavy rain and life-threatening flash flooding, and wind gusts up to 80-100 mph, Kemp said during a Thursday news conference. There will also be a very strong possibility of spinoff tornadoes and even landslides due to the amount of rain expected, especially in the more mountainous and hilly parts of the state, he said.

“Certainly, this storm hitting in the middle of the night with the potential for tornadoes and other things, people just need to be very, very, very weather-aware all this evening and be prepared at home,” Kemp said.

Two FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams have been stationed in Gainesville and Macon, and the state has deployed several teams prepared to remove downed trees and power lines, clear out roads and assist with water rescues, the governor said.

More than 100,000 customers are without power in Florida as Helene pounds state

More than 100,000 customers are already without power in Florida as  Hurricane Helene  continues to intensify and lash the state Thursday afternoon, according to  PowerOutage.us .

There are 109,000 homes and businesses without power as of 3:00 p.m. Most of the outages are in Southwest Florida, where tropical storm-force wind gusts have been reported, but the storm’s massive wind field is starting to spread across much of the Florida Peninsula.

Here are some of the highest wind gusts in the state so far: • Punta Gorda: 61 mph • Fort Myers: 60 mph • Naples: 53 mph • St. Petersburg/Clearwater: 52 mph

Power outages will continue to climb as the wind field spreads across the Southeast Thursday and into Friday.

Georgia governor deploys National Guard in preparation for Helene

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has authorized up to 500 Georgia National Guardsmen, including 250 currently on duty, to prepare for Hurricane Helene, he said during a Thurday news conference.

The storm is expected to reach South Georgia by sunset on Thursday through sunrise, middle Georgia from 10 p.m. to 11 a.m., and north Georgia midnight to noon on Friday, Kemp said.

A state of emergency was declared for all 159 counties in Georgia on Tuesday to give emergency management teams time to prepare and reply resources where needed. The storm is expected to remain at hurricane strength as it moves up through Macon and possibly into metro Atlanta Thursday evening before traveling north and exiting the state midday Friday.

“This is a big storm, it’s going to affect our entire state, we feel certain we’re going to be having to remove debris and clear roads statewide,” Kemp said, adding the storm’s impact is likely going to be worse than Tropical Storm Debby.

All Georgia Department of Public Safety troopers and officers are available and on duty as well as more than 150 teams with the state’s Department of Natural Resources, who are prepared to respond to clear roads, conduct water rescues, provide security, and deliver critical supplies, Kemp said. The Georgia Department of Transportation also has crews embedded across Georgia ready to remove debris from the streets once it’s safe to do so.

More than 10,000 linemen with utility providers in the state are deployed and prepared to respond to power outages as soon as the storm passes and winds die down enough and it’s safe for them to work.

“I can promise you we will respond with full force as soon as it’s safe to do so,” Kemp said.

Helene’s surge could smash records

Helene’s storm surge could be “unsurvivable” in some parts of Florida, the National Weather Service warned Thursday.

Up to 20 feet of dangerous surge is possible for the state’s Big Bend region as Helene’s powerful winds force water out of the Gulf and onto normally dry ground.

But surge levels could smash records even in places where 20 feet is out of the question. Cedar Key – which was hit hard by Hurricane Idalia last year – could record more than 10 feet of surge, which would eclipse the record Idalia set.

The table below lists other locations where records could be broken.

Helene could hit most places overnight. How to prepare before you go to sleep

If you haven’t prepared already, the time is here. Hurricane Helene is expected to make landfall Thursday night along Florida’s Gulf Coast south of Tallahassee and then veer north, maintaining dangerous winds and torrential rainfall well inland into the Southeast.

In most areas, the brunt of the storm will hit overnight. This requires special preparations.

Miller advises turning up the volume on your phone or watch so you can hear any  emergency alerts . It’s also a good idea to ensure those devices are close to you and fully charged. Many areas are expected to lose power overnight, and high winds may delay crews from beginning restoration work.

Here are some other things you can do now to get ready:

• Check the location of your nearest shelters.  The Red Cross  keeps a map .
• Pack a “go bag” or box.  Grab it if you need to leave home quickly. Here’s  what should go in it .
• Make digital copies of all important documents.  Just snapping a photo of your driver’s license with your phone might be important.
• Prep your generator.  If using a backup generator for power, make sure you have fuel for it, and never use it inside the house.  Here’s more  on using backup generators safely.
• Have a way of getting emergency information that doesn’t need to be plugged in.  FEMA suggests battery-powered or hand-cranked radios. If you’ve got a low-bandwidth connection, you can use  CNN’s lite site .

Find the full list of preparedness tips here .

Tampa Bay's Sunshine Skyway Bridge is closed

The huge Sunshine Skyway Bridge, which connects Pinellas and Manatee counties over Tampa Bay via I-275, is closed, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

In a  post on X , the highway patrol said it was closing the bridge after winds reached 60 mph.

“Motorists are requested to seek alternate routes, do not drive through flooded roads & unless absolutely necessary stay off area roadways,” the agency said.

The Howard Frankland Bridge, which connects St. Petersburg and Tampa, is also closed due to “high winds and storm surge,” the Florida Highway Patrol said on X .

Helene has rapidly intensified into a Category 3 major hurricane

Helene strengthened into a Category 3 major hurricane, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The hurricane has sustained winds of 120 mph and stronger gusts.

Helene fills half of the Gulf of Mexico

Helene is a massive hurricane. Its strong winds span hundreds of miles while clouds and storms fed by its moisture stretch even farther.

Satellite imagery shows how the bulk of Helene is taking up the entire eastern half of the Gulf of Mexico. Its rain bands are bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the Florida Peninsula.

Farther north, the hurricane’s moisture is fueling storms across the Southeast and into the mid-Atlantic. It’s also influencing storminess in the western Caribbean.

Watching the sky for waterspouts

We are on the coast in Apalachicola, Florida, awaiting Helene’s arrival, and we’re also keeping an eye on the sky: There’s a risk of waterspouts as this storm approaches, which could be locally devastating to some parts of the coast if they come ashore.

Dark, ominous clouds hang low on the horizon Tuesday afternoon, overlooking the Apalachicola River with the Gulf of Mexico in the distance.

Helene strengthens again as it nears major hurricane status

Helene’s winds have increased to 110 mph – a strong Category 2 hurricane, according to the 2 p.m. update from the National Hurricane Center. Helene is now just 1 mph away from becoming a Category 3 major hurricane.

“Preparations should be rushed to completion,” the NHC warned in the update.

The hurricane will strengthen further as it continues to track over extremely warm water in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to be a major hurricane – Category 3 or stronger – at landfall Thursday evening.

Helene is just under 200 miles southwest of Tampa, Florida, moving north-northeast at 16 mph – slightly faster than it was a few hours ago.

Tallahassee bracing for a direct hit from what could be the strongest hurricane its seen

Hurricane Helene is forecasted to directly hit Tallahassee, Florida — bringing the force of what is expected to be one of the largest storms in the Gulf of Mexico in the last century down on the city.

Local officials are trying to prepare for the damage they know is coming, Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey said on X . The city has “tripled the workforce for electric utility” ahead of the storm. Crews will respond to power outages and downed trees until it is no longer safe, the City of Tallahassee said on X .

“Folks, it’s going to be a marathon, not a sprint. We’re expecting significant damage,” Dailey said in a video on social media.

Florida State Univeristy, which is located in Tallahassee, said students who live on campus will shelter in place in a university conference center, which was “upgraded to withstand extreme conditions.” Some of those upgrades include hurricane shutters and emergency generators, the university said in a statement .

The storm has been strengthening and will make landfall along the Big Bend of Florida tonight as a major hurricane, Category 3 or higher. If that happens, that will be the strongest storm in Tallahassee’s history, Dailey said .

Helene is expected to create wind speeds that could reach 110 mph and 6 to 9 inches of rain in the city.

One of the most significant weather events in the modern era

Record-breaking flooding is in the forecast for the Asheville, North Carolina, area in what meteorologists at the National Weather Service are calling “one of the most significant weather events to happen in the … modern era” in this region.

The ground around Asheville is already soaked with more than 7.5 inches of rain since Wednesday evening. What Helene is about to bring will tip this area way over the edge; as much as 20 inches of rain is possible between what fell yesterday and the hurricane. Meteorologists are comparing the forecast to the 1916 floods in Asheville .

We’re seeing it again and again today: Forecasters and officials are using the strongest language possible to convey how dangerous Hurricane Helene will be.

Florida's Big Bend communities are bracing as Helene approaches, officials say

Communities in the Big Bend region of northwestern Florida are preparing for the arrival of Hurricane Helene Thursday evening, as it continues to pick up strength, and a leading rain system is already filling roadways with water.

“A lot of our streets in Apalachicola and on the island are underwater,” Franklin County Sheriff A.J. “Tony” Smith told CNN Thursday afternoon. The community is under an evacuation order, and Smith said there’s nothing to be gained by staying behind.

Further inland, the state capital is under threat. “We’re expecting a direct hit,” Tallahassee Mayor John Dailey said in a  Facebook message  to residents.

Helene's eye spotted on weather radar

United States weather radars can now see Helene’s eye – its rain-free center – as the hurricane tracks closer to the Florida coast.

A Tampa area weather radar first picked up Helene’s eye in the early afternoon. The center of the hurricane is located just under 200 miles away from the radar, so – because of the curvature of Earth – it’s only able to capture high levels of the system. The radar beam here is looking at the center more than 20,000 feet above ground level.

But hurricanes are massive: Their clouds and storms can reach tens of thousands of feet in the air.

Hurricane Helene is already lashing Florida as it continues to intensify and track north toward Florida’s Big Bend. Thousands of Florida residents have already been forced to evacuate and nearly the entire state is under alerts.

Here are some images from today as the storm continues its approach.

See more photos here .

Helene will have significant impacts in multiple states, FEMA says

President Joe Biden was briefed by Federal Emergency Management Agency administrator Deanne Criswell on Thursday as Hurricane Helene is intensifying and expected to make landfall this evening .

“This is going to be a multi-state event with potential for significant impacts from Florida all the way to Tennessee,” Criswell warned during an appearance at the White House press briefing.

Biden has approved disaster declarations for Florida, Georgia and North Carolina.

“Please take this threat from storm surge seriously,” Criswell said, encouraging those in the affected area to “move out of harm’s way” and not to “underestimate what the impacts could possibly be.”

International Space Station provides a view from 260 miles above Hurricane Helene

NASA gave people on Earth a bird’s-eye view of Hurricane Helene as it tracks toward the Florida Panhandle on Thursday.

Cameras on the International Space Station captured a view of the storm from 260 miles above.

NASA hosted a livestream as the station orbited above the hurricane.

The cameras showed the eye of the storm against the limb of Earth, or where the edge of the atmosphere is visible. The space station could be seen in the foreground of the camera. On the livestream, NASA said the station was moving at about 5 miles per second and only stayed over the storm for a few minutes.

Helene is expected to make landfall in Florida Thursday night.

Blue Ridge Parkway closed in North Carolina ahead of Helene

The entirety of the Blue Ridge Parkway is closed in North Carolina, the National Park Service said Thursday, in anticipation of severe weather from Hurricane Helene.

It will remain closed “until the storm passes, and staff can safely assess the park and clear any storm damage,” the park service said .

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a popular scenic route spanning more than 400 miles along the Appalachian Mountains. It passes through several states in addition to North Carolina, including Virginia and Tennessee.

Helene is forecast to grow into one of the largest storms in the Gulf of Mexico in the last century. The storm is forecast to make landfall in the Florida Panhandle before moving through Georgia and into East Tennessee and parts of North Carolina over the weekend.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper warned residents earlier today that the storm would be “unusually dangerous” for western and central parts of the state.

A number of other national parks in Florida, Georgia, Alabama and South Carolina have also announced closures due to Helene.

You can find all of the latest alerts, restrictions and closures from the National Park Service here .

Atlanta now in rare high risk for flooding rainfall

The risk of life-threatening flooding is expanding over the Southeast as Helene nears. Atlanta is now firmly in the center of the rarest risk levels issued: a level 4 of 4 high risk of flooding rainfall.

Earlier this morning, two separate rare level 4 of 4 risks of flooding rainfall were outlooked by the Weather Prediction Center. That extremely hazardous risk area expanded to connect the two in an afternoon forecast update.

Now, the rare high risk area extends from the Florida Panhandle, through many major population centers in Georgia and into the mountains of western North Carolina.

The combination of Wednesday’s soaking rainfall, Helene’s impending deluge and its powerful winds could bring down trees in soaked soils, down power lines and overwhelm drainage systems, the WPC warned.

Here's the potential impact Hurricane Helene can have on oil and gas

Federal officials   are warning that Hurricane Helene could mess with energy facilities as it barrels into the Southeast.

The storm has the “potential for significant disruptions to energy infrastructure,” the US Energy Information Administration said in a  post  on Thursday.

Already, more than a quarter (29%) of US oil production in the Gulf of Mexico has been paused due to Hurricane Helene, according to the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement. An additional 17% of natural gas production has been sidelined.

The EIA noted that high wind, flooding and storm surge could affect power plants and power transmission and distribution lines in the region.

However, Hurricane Helene appears poised to spare Gulf Coast refineries. These facilities — which churn out gasoline, diesel and jet fuel for much of the country — lie mostly to the west of the storm’s track.

That’s why Andy Lipow, president of consulting firm Lipow Oil Associates, said in an email he does not expect   gasoline or diesel prices to be impacted in a significant way.

However, Lipow did caution that that power outages and flooding could potentially shut down pipeline pumping stations and terminal operations in the region.

That, in turn, could reduce supplies of gasoline, diesel and juet fuel to the mid-Atlantic region through Washington, DC, and Baltimore.

"It's time to start talking about sheltering in place," St. Petersburg official warns

St. Petersburg Emergency Manager Amber Boulding told residents that “it’s time to start talking about sheltering in place” as Hurricane Helene tracks closer to Tampa Bay, with storm surge already beginning to impact the city.

“Winds are starting to pick up, and we have started to see some flooding in low lying areas around the city,” St. Petersburg Mayor Kenneth Welch said at a briefing Thursday.

Storm surge will continue to rise throughout the day and stay high throughout the night and into Friday, Boulding said. Flooding has already prompted the closure of Shore Acres and Snell Isle, according to the mayor.

He warned of an “unprecedented” storm surge and overall impact to the city, saying there could be up to 5 to 8 feet of surge.

“This is going to be different than any storm we’ve seen here before,” the mayor said.

"Don't be fooled" by sunshine in Tampa, mayor says

The City of Tampa is doing their best to keep the community safe ahead of Hurricane Helene but its mayor is urging people to understand their level of responsibility, too, she said in a Thursday news conference.

Flooding has already begun Tampa Mayor Jane Castor said. “Do not be fooled” by the sunshine.

Helene floods parts of Fort Myers Beach with more to come

Hurricane Helene’s sprawling strong winds sent water levels up about 2 feet above normal along Florida’s west coast this morning. The increase coincided with the morning’s high tide for many areas.

This combination sent water into parts of Fort Myers Beach that should normally be dry.

Flooding in the area could get more severe later today as Helene closes in on Florida. Up to 5 feet of storm surge is possible, especially if Helene’s strongest winds align with the next high tide this evening.

Asheville area nearing 1-in-1000-year rain event as flood concerns mount

Torrential rainfall being enhanced by tropical moisture from Helene has deluged the Asheville, North Carolina area since Wednesday night. More than 7.5 inches of rain has fallen since last evening.

If another 2 inches or so falls by Thursday evening, it’ll be a 1-in-1000 -year rain event for the area, according to the Southeast Regional Climate Center. Helene is expected to dump more than a foot of rain in the western North Carolina mountains through this weekend, with much of that coming through Friday afternoon.

The overwhelming amount of rain has sent water levels on area waterways skyrocketing. The Swannanoa River near Asheville’s Biltmore Village is expected to reach major flood stage Thursday night and crest at a record level sometime Friday morning.

Multiple other rivers in North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee are forecast to hit major flood stage in the coming days.

Parts of Florida coast already underwater as Helene nears Category 3 strength

The impacts of Hurricane Helene are already evident along parts of the Florida coast, where some streets have flooded in beachfront communities.

US flight cancellations top 1,000 due to Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene is already disrupting flight operations at some major airports in the southeast, most notably Tampa International Airport.

There were roughly 1,020 cancellations across the United States as of 11 a.m. ET on Thursday — more than triple the daily average for the 2023 calendar year, and well above the 30-day high,  according to FlightAware .

Sarasota-Bradenton International and Southwest Florida International are among the other airports seeing significant cancellations.

Typically, airlines hope that by canceling flights ahead of the storm, they won’t leave passengers stranded at airports and can recover their schedules more quickly. Southwest Airlines appears to be taking the biggest blow of any major airline so far.

CNN’s Ross Levitt contributed to this report.

Helene is an "unusually dangerous storm," North Carolina governor warns

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper warned that Hurricane Helene could have a dangerous and deadly impact in parts of the state.

Cooper noted that when tropical weather crosses into the state’s mountainous areas, it can be deadly. He recalled the deadly and devastating impact of Tropical Storm Fred in 2021, and said Helene could have a similar impact.

He added that the storm is expected to bring more than a foot of rain to parts of western North Carolina, which will “likely cause significant flash flooding, landslides, damaging debris flows, slope failures across steep terrain and river flooding. Even areas that typically don’t experience it, may see flooding.”

He said that cities like Charlotte and Asheville could see flash flooding despite not being directly in the storm’s path. The governor said that as of this morning there were about 14,000 power outages reported statewide.

Cooper said that he has activated 175 members of North Carolina’s National Guard in preparation for the storm.

Hillsborough County to residents: Don't put first responders at risk

Hillsborough County, which includes Tampa, will keep its offices and facilities closed on Friday, which will allow county employees to focus on the Hurricane Helene response.

Three fire stations have evacuated, and a Hillsborough County Fire Rescue fire boat has been taken out of service temporarily, Fire Chief Jason Dougherty said.

“Our fire department is not immune to the impacts of this storm … this will not affect our response times, but it serves as a reminder – if we are leaving the evacuation zone, so should you,” Dougherty said.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister assured residents rescue crews will be ready to help.

“There won’t be a scenario where we can’t come get you,” Chronister said, adding that the department has two amphibious vehicles and a marine unit.

“But please, what I’m asking is, don’t put these first responders at risk because you make an improper and poor decision,” Chronister added.

Helene is on the verge of Category 3 strength

Hurricane Helene continues to intensify Thursday morning and now has maximum sustained winds of 105 mph with higher gusts, according to the National Hurricane Center. Its winds are now just 6 mph away from Category 3 major hurricane status.

Helene is centered 255 miles southwest of Tampa and is moving to the north-northeast at 14 mph — slightly faster than earlier this morning. Helene is expected to pick up more forward speed and strengthen further today while on a collision course with the Florida coastline.

Helene will likely be the strongest storm to slam the US in more than a year.

Tornado watch issued for parts of Florida and Georgia

A new tornado watch due to Hurricane Helene has been issued by the Storm Prediction Center for nearly 3.8 million people in Florida and Georgia until 10 p.m. Thursday.

The watch spans parts of northern Florida, including Jacksonville and Tallahassee, and southern Georgia including Valdosta and Albany.

Conditions will become “increasingly favorable for tornadoes” as Helene’s rain bands track north through the area throughout the day, the SPC said. “These conditions will result in a long-duration risk for tornadoes across northern Florida and southern Georgia.”

More than 24 million people across South Carolina, Georgia and Florida are now under tornado watches due to the hurricane.

Southwest Airlines tops Hurricane Helene cancellations with 200 flights grounded

Southwest Airlines is taking the biggest blow from Hurricane Helene of any major airline, according to tracking information from FlightAware .

The flight tracking site says the airline — which operates the most Florida flights of any carrier — has canceled at least 200 flights on Thursday, making up roughly one in five of all cancellations in the United States as of 10:30 a.m. ET.

Southwest told CNN that its service at Tampa International Airport and Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport could resume as early as Friday morning.

The airline has waived change fees for flights to, from or through airports as far south as Miami, and as far north as Charlotte and Nashville.

Florida wildlife officials warn of gators and snakes in flooded areas

Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission posted a warning to residents on X ahead of Helene, urging them to be cautious of “alligators and snakes.”

Florida is facing a serious flood threat from Helene both from the sea and from the sky that could inundate vast areas of the state, especially at the coast.

Wildlife officials made sure to note that residents should “Keep them at a distance & give them space!”

Helene will push the Gulf of Mexico onshore, drowning the coast with up to 20 feet of storm surge. And several inches of rain will also fall, increasing the risk for freshwater flooding.

United Airlines halting flights to 4 airports

United Airlines says it is stopping flights to four Florida airports Thursday due to Hurricane Helene.

The airline says in a statement it is halting operations at Tampa International Airport, Fort Myers’ Southwest Florida International Airport, Key West International Airport and Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

The airline is also waiving change fees for passengers flying to, from or through 25 airports in the US, Mexico and Cuba through at least Friday.  The full list of airports is here.

The latest change to United’s operation: “using larger aircraft the next several days to fly more customers out of Havana, Cuba.”

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