In Florida, millions of people are already experiencing the fury of Hurricane Helen as it looms overhead. A terrifying series of events saw over 1.1 million customers lose power as the Category 4 storm tore through the country, bringing with it a deadly mix of high winds, torrential rain and extensive infrastructure damage. The storm placed an enormous strain on Florida's already vulnerable power grid, and left utilities fighting an uphill battle to restore power in the face of continued dangerous conditions. Meteorologists have labeled the storm as one of the fiercest in recent memory.
The catastrophic collision that partially closed Interstate 4 (I-4) in Tampa has worsened the situation and is adding to the chaos already plaguing the area. The collision, which occurred at mile marker 1 at 7:53 p.m., closed a significant lane and increased the risk of driving during the storm. The traffic camera footage from the scene seems to indicate a huge falling sign and a significant police presence, but the exact nature of the incident is still unknown. As Hurricane Helen continues to make landfall, officials are asking people to stay indoors, obey curfews and avoid unnecessary travel.
A storm unlike any other: the looming threat of Hurricane Helen
Hurricane Helen is not your typical hurricane. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued a warning in the days leading up to the storm's expected landfall, citing a “potentially catastrophic” occurrence as it continued to strengthen, going from a Category 2 hurricane to a Category 4 monster in less than 48 hours. With gusts that could exceed 180 mph and sustained winds of up to 150 mph, the storm poses a serious risk to lives, property, and vital infrastructure along Florida's Gulf Coast.
The governor of Florida advised the 21 million citizens of the state to drive with extreme caution and, if necessary, to escape from the most sensitive places, especially those near the coast, in coordination with the local emergency services. In an attempt to reduce the likelihood of flooding, millions of sandbags were distributed and shelters were set up in several areas. But even with these precautions, Florida's resilience is being tested like never before because of the sheer size and power of Hurricane Helen.
