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Florida's capital city, Tallahassee, is bracing for the potential impact of Hurricane Helene, with city officials warning of unprecedented damage. Preparations are underway as residents and local authorities take necessary precautions ahead of the storm's arrival.
All City of Tampa offices will close on Thursday, September 26, in response to the impending arrival of Tropical Storm Helene. This measure allows city staff to prioritize emergency response efforts as the storm approaches.
Hillsborough County has issued mandatory evacuation orders for residents living in Zone A ahead of Tropical Storm Helene, effective at 9 a.m. Wednesday. This evacuation affects low-lying areas and all mobile and manufactured homes, with a population exceeding 187,000 people. Residents are encouraged to access evacuation maps and additional resources for preparation.
Cedar Key is bracing for significant storm surge of 10-15 feet as Hurricane Helene approaches, prompting a mandatory evacuation order for residents. Local business owner Hannah Healey has taken precautions by removing items from her coffee shop, recalling the damage caused by previous hurricanes in the past year.
Publix announced the closure of over 25 stores along Florida's coast due to the impending approach of Hurricane Helene. All impacted locations are scheduled to reopen on Friday following the storm's passage. Residents are encouraged to check the current status of their local stores.
Pasco County schools remained open despite the threat of Tropical Storm Helene, prompting criticism from parents and the community. Superintendent Kurt Browning defended the decision, stating it was based on current weather information and safety preparations. The controversy highlights concerns over student and staff safety amid severe weather conditions.
Congress passed a temporary funding measure on September 25, 2024, to prevent a government shutdown, maintaining agency funding until December. The Senate approved the bill with bipartisan support, which includes additional funding for the Secret Service following security concerns. The bill now awaits President Biden's signature.
Forecasts indicate that Hurricane Helene is set to become one of the largest hurricanes to threaten the Gulf of Mexico in decades, potentially stretching over 400 miles. Expected to affect the entire Florida peninsula, the storm's impact could be felt as far as 250 miles from its center.
Hurricane Helene has formed, prompting evacuation orders in several Florida counties, including Pinellas and Hillsborough. Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to prepare for severe weather as the storm approaches.
Orlando International Airport is considering a consolidated rental car facility (ConRAC) to alleviate parking issues by moving rental cars off-site. This plan could potentially free up 4,500 parking spaces in the airport's existing garages, addressing the growing demand from nearly 58 million annual passengers.