JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Tropical Storm Helene is forecasted to become a major hurricane as it approaches Florida on Thursday, bringing storm surges on both sides of the Florida coastline.
The National Hurricane Center predicts there could be between 10 to 15 feet of storm surge in the Big Bend area, which could devastate the region.
Recommended Videos
A storm surge of up to 15 feet was forecast from Ochlockonee River to Chassahowitzka, and up to 10 feet from Chassahowitzka to Anclote River and from Indian Pass to Ochlockonee River.
Florida has been inundated with water recently, and adding a few more feet could cause major, widespread flooding.
Will Jacksonville see any storm surges?
While Jacksonville is not in the direct path of Helene, the impact will still be felt. It’s predicted there will be 1-3 feet of surge from the Flagler/Volusia County line all the way up to the South Santee River in South Carolina, which includes the St. Johns River.
Other areas that will be affected
- Indian Pass, FL to Ochlockonee River, FL...5-10 ft
- Anclote River, FL to Middle of Longboat Key, FL...5-8 ft
- Tampa Bay...5-8 ft
- Middle of Longboat Key, FL to Englewood, FL...4-7 ft
- Englewood, FL to Flamingo, FL...3-5 ft
- Charlotte Harbor...3-5 ft
- Mexico Beach, FL to Indian Pass, FL...1-3 ft
- Dry Tortugas...1-3 ft
- Florida Keys...1-3 ft
What is a storm surge?
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), a storm surge is an abnormal water rise generated by a storm over and above the predicted astronomical tide.
Storm surge is caused primarily by the strong winds in a hurricane or tropical storm.
The stronger the system is, the larger the storm surge will be.
Relevant Facts (from Weather.gov):
- Population density increased 32% in coastal counties along the Gulf of Mexico coastline from 1990 to 2008
- 27% of major roads in the Gulf region are at or below 4 ft. elevation
What Influences a storm surge?
- Central Pressure
- Storm Intensity
- Storm Forward Speed
- Width and Slope of the Ocean Bottom
- Size
- Angle of Approach to Coast
- Shape of the Coastline
- Local Features
How does storm surge happen?
According to an in-depth explanation by USATODAY, in the open ocean, hurricane winds push water toward the center of the storm. Instead of piling up, the water spirals downward and flows outward.
As the water is pushed downward, some is pushed out to sea, and some is pushed toward the coast.
As the storm approaches land and shallow water, the ocean floor blocks the outflowing water, causing the ocean to surge onto land.
Want more information regarding storm surges? Visit Weather.gov.