Weather
Hurricane Helene Death Toll: 5 Fatalities Confirmed
The death toll from Hurricane Helene continues to rise as the storm’s destructive impact becomes evident. Five fatalities have now been confirmed:
- Two deaths in Wheeler County, Georgia: Two individuals were killed when a tornado destroyed their mobile home.
- Two deaths in Charlotte, North Carolina: Vehicle accidents on wet roads caused by the hurricane resulted in two fatalities.
- One death in Tampa, Florida: A highway sign was blown onto a vehicle on Interstate 4, leading to one death.
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage caused by Hurricane Helene.
A deadly crash has partially closed Interstate 4 in Tampa as Hurricane Helene continues to batter the Tampa Bay area.
The incident occurred around 7:53 p.m. at mile marker 1, with traffic cameras showing a downed sign and a significant police presence at the scene.
While details about the crash are limited, local officials are urging residents to shelter in place and avoid unnecessary travel on the highway as the Category 4 storm passes through.
The incident further highlights the dangers posed by severe weather conditions and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines during such events.
This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.
Significant flooding has impacted multiple areas throughout St. Louis, Missouri, causing widespread disruption and damage.
Heavy rainfall over recent hours has led to swollen rivers, overwhelmed storm drains, and flooded streets, leaving parts of the city and surrounding communities submerged.
Many neighborhoods in St. Louis are experiencing road closures as floodwaters make some streets impassable.
Emergency services have been responding to calls for assistance from residents stranded in their homes or vehicles, while local authorities have urged drivers to avoid any roads covered in water. Numerous vehicles have already been abandoned due to stalled engines and rising waters.
Reports indicate that several businesses and residential properties have been affected by water damage, with basements, parking garages, and lower floors flooding in low-lying areas.
In some neighborhoods, floodwaters have reached several feet, posing risks to both property and public safety. Local officials have opened temporary shelters for those displaced by the rising waters, and utility crews are on standby to address potential power outages in affected areas.
The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings for the St. Louis area, advising residents to monitor weather updates and stay alert for any changes in conditions.
Flash flooding remains a concern, as the saturated ground and overwhelmed drainage systems are expected to exacerbate any additional rainfall.
As emergency crews work tirelessly to manage the situation, authorities are urging the public to stay off the roads, seek higher ground if necessary, and remain indoors until conditions improve.
Residents in flood-prone areas have been advised to prepare for potential evacuation and secure belongings that could be affected by water damage.