Live Radar Helene

Surging Helene Expected to Impact the Western Gulf Coast

Hurricane Helene has intensified into a Category 2 hurricane, according to a 2 p.m. advisory from the National Hurricane Center. It is expected to become a major hurricane by late Wednesday or Thursday as it continues to move toward the Louisiana-Texas border.

Current Status

As of 2 p.m. Wednesday, Hurricane Helene was located about 290 miles south-southeast of Port Arthur, Texas, and was moving northwest at 10 mph. The storm had maximum sustained winds of 100 mph. Hurricane-force winds extend outward up to 30 miles from the center and tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 125 miles.

A Hurricane Warning has been issued for the Texas-Louisiana border from Sabine Pass to High Island, including Sabine Lake. A Tropical Storm Warning has been issued for the Texas-Louisiana border from High Island to Cameron, Louisiana, and for the Louisiana coast from Cameron to Morgan City.

Expected Impacts

Hurricane Helene is expected to bring heavy rainfall, storm surge, and wind damage to the Western Gulf Coast. Rainfall totals of 6 to 12 inches are possible, with higher amounts in some areas. This rainfall may cause flash flooding and river flooding.

Storm surge of 4 to 6 feet is possible along the Texas-Louisiana border from Sabine Pass to High Island. Storm surge is a dangerous rise in water levels that can cause severe flooding. Storm surge can also produce strong currents that can be deadly.

Winds of 74 mph or higher are possible within the hurricane warning area. Winds of this magnitude can cause significant damage to trees, buildings, and other structures.

Preparations

Residents in the hurricane warning and tropical storm warning areas should be prepared to take action. This includes gathering supplies, such as food, water, and batteries, and making an evacuation plan.

Residents should also monitor the storm's progress and follow the instructions of local officials. Evacuation orders may be issued if the storm is expected to make landfall near your area.

For more information on Hurricane Helene, please visit the National Hurricane Center website at hurricanes.gov.