By Sagar Ram Rane 
Tropical Storm Helene is rapidly intensifying in the Gulf of Mexico and could impact Florida’s Gulf Coast late this week. According to current forecasts, Helene could become a powerful Category 2 or even stronger hurricane, with winds reaching speeds of up to 115 mph. Landfall area could be between Tampa and Pensacola.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has already declared a state of emergency for 41 counties. Residents have been told to prepare as situations like heavy rainfall, high winds and storm surge could occur. Tropical storm warnings have been issued for parts of Cuba and Mexico as the storm moves north and strengthens in the Gulf of Mexico(WUFT)(Honolulu Star-Advertiser).
Rainfall: 4-8 inches of rain is expected in some regions of the Gulf Coast, with up to 12 inches possible in isolated areas. This could increase the risk of flooding, especially in low-lying areas(Yahoo). Ocean waters in Hurricane Helene’s track are extremely warm, which could add fuel to the storm as it moves toward the Florida Panhandle(Honolulu Star-Advertiser).
People should follow emergency updates and if evacuation orders are issued, they must be followed. Conditions could get even more serious by midweek, when Helene is about to reach close to Florida.