Tropical Storm Helene to become hurricane, picking up steam in Gulf

Even before its arrival, the storm had caused power outages for over 1 million customers and severe flooding in several areas.

The National Hurricane Center (NHC) warned of unprecedented levels of flooding, with surges potentially reaching as high as 20 feet above ground in some areas.

Hurricane Helene struck Florida’s Big Bend region on Thursday night, classed as a category four storm with potential to inflict significant damage and loss of life.

Helene has weakened to a tropical storm and is moving north across Georgia, bringing strong winds and heavy rain in what the National Hurricane Center called "life-threatening" conditions.