The agency warns that Helene is the strongest storm to hit Tallahassee, Floridas capital, in decades.
Mandatoryevacuation ordershave been issued for parts of Florida.
Hurricane season began on June 1and will run until November 30.
Floridians prepare for possible flooding as Tropical Storm Helene heads toward the state’s Gulf Coast in Tallahassee.Sean Rayford/Getty Images
More:Will Floridas Oranges Survive Another Hurricane Season?
News from the future, delivered to your present.
The Numbers Are in: Hurricane Helene Deadliest in U.S.
Current coastal watches and the forecast cone for Hurricane Helene. Image: NOAA