According to the NHC, the storm’s wind impact area could extend about 180 miles (290 kilometers) from the Florida peninsula to southern Georgia. Coastal cities where the storm makes landfall could face high surf and storm surge. Helene is also forecast to dump heavy rain, with up to 15 inches (381 mm) of rain, leading to flooding in many areas.

In response to the unpredictable developments of Hurricane Helene, US authorities have declared a state of emergency in many states including Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. In Florida, people in some areas had to evacuate, many schools and businesses were temporarily closed and more than 800 flights were canceled before the storm made landfall.