With all eyes on this massive storm that is expected to unleash devastating winds, rain and flooding, just about every citizen east of the Mississippi is wonder, 'will this affect me?'

Hurricane Helene
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For Mainers, it's not looking like. That's a big sigh of relief as we monitor and pray for our friends south of us.

Where is Hurricane Helene Forecasted to Land?

Hurricane Helene is predicted to hit the Florida Gulf Coast, and it has potential to be catastrophic. As of 9pm EDT, Hurricane Helene is a category 1 storm, with 85 mph sustained winds. It is most likely going to hit Florida in less than 24 hours from its latest readings and all models now show this storm rapidly intensifying to a category 4 hurricane.

How Strong is a Category 4 Hurricane?

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A category 4 hurricane has winds range between 130 to 156 mph. With winds at these speeds, a direct hit will destroy most if not all mobile homes. Frames homes are likely to be destroyed, and roofs and upper floors of all structure will be threatened.

A Category 4 hurricane will blow out most windows on high-rise buildings, uproot most trees and will likely down many power lines. Power outages can last for weeks or even months after storms of this level. Water shortages are also common in the aftermath of Category 4 hurricanes, potentially making the affected area uninhabitable for weeks or months. - time.com

 

How Can I Help with Hurricane Relief?

One of the oldest and most reliable organizations is the American Red Cross.

Direct Relief is another organization that immediately provides aid as well.

The complete list of names for the 2024 Atlantic Hurricane Season

Gallery Credit: Dan Zarrow

Maine Island Trail Association & Surfrider Foundation Island Cleanup

MITA and Surfrider armed with a group of volunteers joined forces to clean up the remote Little Drisko Island off of the coast of Maine.

Gallery Credit: David Bugenske/TSM Maine, Mariel/Surfrider Foundation

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