Hurricane storm surge is considered deadly for people in its path
Storm surges are a deadly risk associated with hurricanes, threatening millions of people along the U.S. Gulf Coast. But why are they so deadly?
Scott L. Hall, USA TODAY
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Collier County is bracing for the impacts of Helene today (Sept. 25). The forecast calls for storm surge — 3 to 5 feet is forecast on the coast — and wind impacts, primarily today, tonight and throughout Thursday.
This is a developing story and our reporters and photographers are on alert and ready to cover it and contribute the latest updates on flooding, cancellations and closures and everything you need to know.
Weather observations, warnings and advisories for Collier County can be found HERE.
You can find the current weather forecast from AccuWeather HERE.
Residents of Southwest Florida don’t have to worry about the intensity of Hurricane Ian. However, residents will “feel the impacts of this major storm well outside the cone,” according to Matt Devitt of WINK Weather Forecast on Facebook.
A tropical storm warning remains in effect for southwest Florida.
Today is a normal school and work day. As of 6:30 p.m., all scheduled activities at Collier County Public Schools and district locations are canceled.
Helene is rapidly intensifying and is expected to become a major hurricane
The weather will worsen starting Wednesday night, leading to tropical storm conditions in Lee County as Tropical Storm Helene moves through the Gulf of Mexico.
The system is expected to develop into a hurricane and make landfall near the Big Bend area late Thursday, environmental reporter Chad Gillis writes in his latest Helene update.
