Hurricane Helene downgrades to a tropical storm over Georgia following Florida landfall

Hurricane Helene has weakened into a tropical storm over Georgia after hitting northwestern Florida as a Category 4 storm late Thursday night. The storm led to the rescue of individuals trapped in floodwaters and left over 3 million customers without electricity across the southeastern United States. At least four storm-related deaths have been reported as a result of the hurricane.
The National Hurricane Center had issued warnings about the potential for a catastrophic storm surge from Hurricane Helene. In Venice, Florida, police and fire rescue crews conducted around 30 rescues in coastal areas on Thursday, with water levels now receded. Teams are currently evaluating the damage and conducting wellness checks in affected neighborhoods.
Police Chief Charlie Thorpe shared in a social media post, “We were working hard there to do whatever we needed to do for life-safety issues and we’re back in those areas this morning checking on things.” Meanwhile, Hurricane John weakened into a tropical storm as it moved along the coast of Michoacan in Mexico.
Moreover, Tropical Storm Isaac has intensified into a hurricane in the Atlantic Ocean. It is located about 980 miles east-northeast of Bermuda and 1,175 miles west of the Azores, with sustained winds of 75 mph. While there are no coastal warnings, dangerous waves and rip currents are expected in Bermuda, with the potential for hazardous conditions in the Azores as well.
Residents in Florida’s Big Bend region are waking up to widespread power outages following Hurricane Helene’s landfall near the Aucilla River mouth. The storm hit as a Category 4 hurricane, making it the third hurricane to strike the area in just over a year. Emergency workers are clearing debris caused by fallen pine trees and power lines, with some vehicles navigating through blocked roads.
Helene made a significant impact in Taylor County, Florida, resulting in structural damage and power outages. Videos on social media platforms captured the intensity of the storm, with heavy rains, torn building siding, and even homes overturned. The community continues to deal with the aftermath of the hurricane as restoration efforts are underway.