Live updates: Helene approaches FL; ‘life-threatening’ effects imminent

Florida is bracing for significant impacts as Hurricane Helene approaches the coast. Mandatory evacuations are in effect across the state, affecting more than two dozen counties. Even neighboring states have issued warnings as this major storm is expected to move far inland. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency for all of Georgia, as did Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin for his state.

Residents of the Southeast will need to prepare for further severe weather after landfall. Yesterday, residents of several states were preparing for Helene. Click here to see our coverage from yesterday.

As the storm approaches and time to evacuate is running out, here’s the latest news:

(MORE: Hurricane Tracker Maps | Latest forecast)

(6:50 a.m. ET) Flooding could lead to more alligator and snake sightings

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission warned that alligators and snakes may be seen more frequently than normal in flooded areas. “Keep them at a distance and give them space,” the agency wrote on X.

(MORE: Resident finds alligator lurking in floodwater)

(6:45 a.m. ET) 911 may not be available once the storm hits

In a strongly worded storm warning, the National Weather Service in Tallahassee reminded residents that emergency calls may not be immediately available during unsafe conditions. “This should be a major factor in your decision” whether to seek shelter or evacuate, the agency said. “Failure to seek appropriate shelter could result in serious injury or death.”

(6:30 a.m. ET) Pipeline crews stationed in Florida

(6:15 a.m. ET) Helene examined with state-of-the-art technology

A specialized system called Sentinel, developed by the University of Florida, will collect sophisticated data as Helene heads toward Florida. “Data and video will be shared with a broad range of research, operational and commercial partners, as well as with stakeholders supporting local response and recovery, such as state environmental or natural resource agencies,” the Florida Climate Institute said.

(6:00 a.m. ET) Alabama DOT opens evacuation routes

The Alabama Department of Transportation has announced it will open the state’s evacuation routes as neighboring Florida issues evacuation orders in some counties. At least a dozen roads are designated for evacuation. “To accommodate evacuation traffic, the Alabama Department of Transportation has ordered the lifting of lane restrictions or closures for non-emergency purposes on all state, U.S. and interstate highways,” the agency said.

(5:30 a.m. ET) What are hurricane categories?

We talk a lot about hurricane categories, but what exactly do they mean? Here’s a breakdown of the Saffir-Simpson scale, which rates hurricanes based on wind speed:

-Category 1: Very dangerous winds cause damage and can result in death and injury.

-Category 2: Extremely dangerous winds cause major damage and a significant risk of injury and death.

-Category 3: There will be devastating damage, with high risk of injury and death.

-Category 4: There will be catastrophic damage, including a very high risk of human deaths.

You can read more about the hurricane categories here.