Many areas are forecast to see dangerous storm surges, especially between Panama City and Tampa. The coast stretching from Ochlockonee River to Chassahowitzka could see between 10 and 15 feet of water. Nearby areas could see between 5 and 10 feet of water, and the Tampa Bay area is forecast to experience between 5 and 8 feet of storm surge.

"Tropical Storm Helene, now formed, is projected to intensify. As always, Florida will prepare for the worst and hope for the best," he wrote on X. "Stay tuned to local and state emergency recommendations and alerts. Get preparations in place now for the storm and heed evacuation directives, if issued, from local officials."