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TIMELINE: Here’s when Hurricane Helene will impact Central Florida

Tropical storm force gusts, tornadoes main threats

ORLANDO, Fla. – The worst of the weather from Hurricane Helene will take place in the Big Bend, Panhandle region of Florida.

However, because of the size of the storm, Central Florida is seeing its effects and will continue to through the evening.

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Tropical-storm-force wind gusts will continue to build through late Thursday night. The majority of the potentially damaging wind gusts will begin to diminish after midnight.

Through tonight, we can’t rule out bands of tropical squalls moving through that could still bring torrential downpours and the risk for a few tornadoes.

By Friday morning at 8 a.m., we’re back to wind gusts in the 20-40 mph range, with breezy conditions throughout the day.

As far as rain is concerned, keep the umbrellas and rain gear on hand. Moisture behind Helene will linger across Central Florida through the weekend. Expect scattered showers with isolated downpours at times.

Slightly less rain chances will return to the forecast starting next week.

For county-specific impacts, click here to see a full breakdown.



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