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HOURS FROM LANDFALL: Tracking Hurricane Helene
Hurricane Helene is a Category 4 storm, and its strong winds are already impacting Florida ahead of landfall. As of this report, more than 600,000 homes and businesses are without power in Florida. The governors of Florida, Georgia, Alabama, the Carolinas and Virginia all declared emergencies in their states. Mayor Kevin Anderson of Fort Myers, Florida, joins LiveNOW from FOX to share insight to his community's preparation for the major incoming storm.
As Hurricane Helene continues to ravage the Big Bend region of Florida and surrounding areas, FOX has joined forces with the American Red Cross to assist those impacted by the storm.
To provide relief, FOX activated its FOX Forward Red Cross donation page, where people can contribute funds directly to the Red Cross to support relief efforts. These donations will go toward providing shelter, meals, emotional support, and essential resources for recovery.
In addition to activating the donation site, FOX Corporation has made a significant contribution to the Red Cross’ Hurricane Helene fund.
RELATED: Live updates: Hurricane Helene an 'extremely dangerous' Category 4 storm on track to Florida
What does the Red Cross provide for hurricane victims?
The American Red Cross is currently on the ground in Florida, providing a variety of essential services to those affected by the storm, including:
- Emergency shelters across the impacted areas.
- Meals and snacks for displaced individuals.
- Emotional and psychological support for victims of the hurricane.
- Assistance with locating missing family members and friends.
These efforts aim to help those who are unable to return home due to flooding, fallen trees, and power outages caused by the hurricane.
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Hurricane Helene first fatality reported
A deadly crash was reported in the westbound lanes of I-4 as Hurricane Helene continued bringing severe weather to Tampa Thursday evening. Traffic cameras in the area show one of the highway signs on top of a vehicle in that area. The Florida Highway Patrol said this was a deadly crash on the highway, but have not said how many deaths were related to the crash or if anyone else was injured.
How can you help support Hurricane Helene relief?
FOX encourages anyone willing to assist in recovery efforts to donate through their dedicated Red Cross donation page. Donations can be made via:
- Visiting redcross.org/foxforward
- Scanning the QR code displayed on FOX broadcasts.
All donations go directly to the Red Cross to ensure that those impacted by the storm receive immediate support, including temporary shelter and meals.
Hurricane Helene's impact
Hurricane Helene brought dangerous flooding, 150 mph winds, and a 20-foot storm surge. Up to 50 million people, including in Georgia and the Carolinas, have been put under warnings.
- Evacuate if instructed, and bring emergency kits and pets.
- Avoid floodwaters: "Turn around, don’t drown."
If you're trying to find a missing loved one due to Hurricane Helene, the Red Cross can help. They offer assistance for those with serious health needs, military connections, or recent contact in the affected area. Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) with details to help locate them.