Tropical Storm Warning Issued For South Florida

MIAMI, Florida - The National Weather Service in Miami has issued Tropical Storm Warnings for all of South Florida as Tropical Storm Helene intensifies. Currently located approximately 520 miles southwest of Miami, Helene is moving northwest at 9 mph with sustained winds of 65 mph. The storm is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane as it approaches the southeastern Gulf of Mexico.

Warnings and Watches in Effect

A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for Broward, Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Glades, Hendry, and Collier Counties. 

A Storm Surge Warning is also in place for Coastal Collier and Mainland Monroe Counties.

Key Threats from Tropical Storm Helene

Coastal Flooding/Storm Surge: Coastal areas of Collier and Monroe Counties face the greatest risk, with potential storm surge flooding of 3 to 5 feet, possibly reaching 6 feet if the storm strengthens or tracks further east. Flooding is expected to be most severe around high tide on Thursday. Vulnerable coastal areas throughout South Florida may also experience minor flooding.

Heavy Rainfall: The storm is forecast to bring 3 to 5 inches of rain across South Florida from Wednesday through Friday, with localized totals exceeding 6 inches in some areas. A Flood Watch has been issued for the entire region due to the potential for significant rainfall flooding.

High Winds: Tropical storm-force winds are most likely along the Gulf Coast of Southwest Florida, including Collier and Monroe Counties. Winds may also affect the Atlantic coastline.

Isolated Tornadoes: There is a risk of isolated tornadoes on Wednesday and Thursday as Helene’s outer bands move across the area.