Our area is not in the Cone, but we will still feel the effects

Hurricane Helene continues to strengthen as the track has shifted west. Scattered showers with storms are developing across the area with the heaviest near and along I-75. Rain will spread across the area late tonight. Thursday remains our impact day with strong wind gusts of Tropical Storm and Hurricane strength. Tornado Watches are likely across our area Thursday.

MORE: Hurricane Helene expected to become Category 4 before hitting Florida; all local counties under Tropical Storm Warning

Tonight: Cloudy with showers and thunderstorms.

Thursday: Tropical impacts are expected through the day with Hurricane force wind gusts possible near I-75 with Tropical Storm force wind gust from Highway 301 to the beaches. Tornado Watches will be likely on Thursday. Tornado chances have increased with SE GA and the Atlantic Coast having the highest chances. Rounds of rain with totals around 2 - 5 inches, locally higher amounts possible. A significant, possibly catastrophic, storm surge is expected along the Gulf Coast of 10 - 15 ft. Tidal flooding and surge possible along the St. Johns River, the Beaches and ICW of up to 3 feet above normal high tide values. The worst of the storm will move through after the sun sets.

Friday: Improving weather as rain ends and the wind gusts subside. A chance of showers will continue at around 30-40% for NE FL and around 50% for SE GA.

Looking ahead: Scattered showers and storms will be possible this weekend.

Sunrise: 7:18 a.m.

Sunset: 7:19 p.m.