‘Life-threatening’ storm surge to hit Florida’s west coast in next 36 hours

Florida will be hit hard by Tropical Storm Helene, forecasters predict today, which will likely arrive as a hurricane late tomorrow evening.

The National Hurricane Center said in an update at 5 a.m. ET that the list of warnings and emergency notices expanded overnight, and a hurricane warning is now in effect for the west coast of Florida, from Mexico Beach to the Anclote River.

A hurricane warning is in effect for the coast from the river to Englewood.

“Preparations to protect life and property must be completed as soon as possible,” the NHC said.

A storm surge warning, meaning life-threatening flooding is possible within the next 36 hours, is in effect for most of Florida’s west coast from Indian Pass, southeast of Panama City, to Flamingo in Everglades National Park at the tip of the peninsula. The warning includes Tampa Bay and Charlotte Harbor.

On the upper West Coast areas, the storm could bring storm surges of 10 to 15 feet.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for Florida’s west coast, much of the east coast and the entire Florida Keys.

Several tourists visiting the popular tourist attraction Cancun were still on the beach Tuesday despite warnings that Helene was approaching Mexico’s Caribbean coast.

NBC News meteorologist Angie Lassman forecasts the direction, size and strength of Hurricane Helene as it heads toward Florida on Early Today.