What is the location of the flooding?

Hurricane Helene, which is rapidly strengthening as it approaches the Gulf Coast of Florida on September 26, 2024, is expected to bring flooding, storm surge, and catastrophic winds across the southeastern U.S. and the southern Appalachians. Helene could become a Category 4 storm before making landfall in the evening (1)(2)(3).

The Big Bend and Panhandle areas are likely to experience catastrophic storm surges and rainfall-driven flooding, from the Anclote River near Tampa to Mexico Beach.

Heavy rainfall is also expected to bring significant flooding to Florida, the Carolinas, Georgia, and further inland as heavy rainfall impacts multiple Southeastern states.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The areas directly most likely to be affected by the flooding include:

• Big Bend and Panhandle regions in Florida
• Coastal communities like Mexico Beach and the Tampa Bay area
• Atlanta and parts of Georgia
• Asheville, North Carolina, and the southern Appalachians

Additionally, The National Weather Service has issued flood watches for western Virginia, eastern Alabama, northeastern Arkansas, southeastern Kentucky, and all of Tennessee (4).

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

Preparations are in place for Florida, but the storm surge is expected to make containment difficult, particularly in low-lying coastal areas.

Several states, including North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Virginia, and Georgia have issued states of emergency in preparation for the event.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Evacuation orders have been issued across several areas. In Florida, residents along the Big Bend coast have been instructed to evacuate due to life-threatening storm surges expected to reach up to 20 feet.

Inland areas in northern Florida and southern Georgia are also at risk, and residents in vulnerable zones have been advised to follow local official guidance closely.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

• Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
• Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
• If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
• Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
• Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
• Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
• Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
• If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.