Hurricanes Milton and Helene: Current Status, Areas Affected, and How You Can Help

As hurricane season intensifies, two major storms—Hurricanes Milton and Helene—are currently wreaking havoc across several regions, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. With severe weather, massive evacuations, and widespread damage, the affected communities are in urgent need of assistance. Here’s a breakdown of the current situation, the areas impacted, and practical ways you can make a difference.

Hurricane Milton: Impacting the Southeastern United States

Hurricane Milton, a powerful Category 4 storm, is currently making landfall along the southeastern coast of the United States. As of now, Milton has caused extensive damage across several states, including Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. With wind speeds reaching 145 mph, the storm continues to bring catastrophic winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous storm surges.

Current Statistics on Hurricane Milton:

  • Wind Speeds: Sustained winds of 145 mph, with gusts reaching up to 160 mph in some areas.
  • Storm Surge: Coastal regions are seeing storm surges of 10 to 15 feet, submerging streets, homes, and businesses.
  • Rainfall: Several areas are experiencing rainfall totals between 15-20 inches, causing flash floods and river overflows.
  • Evacuations: Over 1.5 million people have been ordered to evacuate in Florida, with similar advisories in Georgia and South Carolina.
  • Power Outages: More than 500,000 homes and businesses are without power across the affected states, with utility companies struggling to restore service due to the dangerous conditions.

Areas Most Affected by Hurricane Milton:

  • Florida: Cities such as Jacksonville, Miami, and Tampa are experiencing severe flooding, power outages, and damage to infrastructure. Coastal areas have been particularly hard hit, with homes destroyed by both wind and water.
  • Georgia: The coastal city of Savannah and surrounding areas are facing intense winds, flooding, and evacuation orders. Local authorities are focusing on rescue operations as water levels continue to rise.
  • South Carolina: Charleston and Myrtle Beach are dealing with widespread power outages and rising floodwaters as the storm surge continues to push inland.

Hurricane Helene: Threatening the Caribbean and Central America

While Hurricane Milton barrels through the southeastern U.S., Hurricane Helene is intensifying in the Caribbean. Currently a Category 3 storm, Helene is expected to cause significant damage in the Lesser Antilles, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and possibly parts of Central America as it moves westward.

Current Statistics on Hurricane Helene:

  • Wind Speeds: Helene’s winds are currently sustained at 125 mph, with projections indicating the storm may strengthen as it approaches the Caribbean islands.
  • Rainfall: Forecasts predict rainfall of up to 12 inches, with some areas at risk of mudslides and flash flooding, particularly in mountainous regions.
  • Evacuations: Authorities in Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic have already issued evacuation orders for low-lying areas and coastal regions.
  • Potential Impact: Helene is projected to affect major population centers, including San Juan, Santo Domingo, and smaller islands in the Lesser Antilles. Severe flooding and wind damage are expected, as well as disruptions to power and water supplies.

What’s Happening Now: A Real-Time Overview

Hurricane Milton’s Impact in Real-Time:

As Hurricane Milton makes landfall, rescue teams are working around the clock to help stranded residents. Emergency shelters in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina are filling up quickly as thousands seek safety from the storm. Flooding remains the biggest concern, especially in coastal areas where storm surges have surpassed 10 feet, flooding entire neighborhoods.

In Miami, floodwaters have made several roads impassable, while in Tampa, rescue operations are ongoing as people are stranded in their homes. National Guard units have been mobilized to assist with search and rescue missions in heavily affected areas.

Hurricane Helene’s Impact in Real-Time:

Hurricane Helene is currently approaching the Lesser Antilles, where heavy rains and gusty winds are already being felt. As the storm inches closer to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, the risk of severe flooding and mudslides is increasing. Local authorities have issued warnings for all residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately.

The Caribbean region has already been battered by strong winds, with widespread power outages reported in parts of Puerto Rico. In the Dominican Republic, the government has declared a state of emergency in coastal provinces, where residents are preparing for what could be one of the worst storms of the season.

How You Can Help After Hurricanes Milton and Helene

In the wake of these devastating hurricanes, it’s crucial to support relief efforts. Here’s how you can help after a natural disaster like Hurricanes Milton and Helene:

1. Donate to Relief Efforts

Financial donations are one of the most immediate and effective ways to help communities recover from natural disasters. Your contributions help organizations on the ground provide food, water, shelter, and medical care to those affected. Some trusted organizations accepting donations include:

2. Volunteer to Assist with Recovery

If you live near the disaster zones or are willing to travel, volunteering can make a huge difference. Relief organizations need volunteers to help with search and rescue operations, distribute aid, and assist in shelters. You can volunteer with organizations like:

  • Team Rubicon: A veteran-led disaster response organization.
  • All Hands and Hearts: Engaging volunteers in recovery efforts across the world.
  • United for a Cause: Our team is looking for volunteers to help with both immediate relief and long-term recovery operations.

For those unable to travel, consider virtual volunteer opportunities such as organizing online fundraisers or helping manage donation drives.

3. Provide Shelter or Offer Transportation

Residents near the affected areas can help by offering temporary shelter through platforms like Airbnb Open Homes, where those in need of emergency accommodations can find a safe place to stay. If you have transportation available, consider helping evacuees reach shelters or safer areas.

4. Donate Essential Supplies

While financial contributions are often the most helpful, there is still a need for specific supplies in the aftermath of hurricanes. Contact local organizations or shelters to find out what items are needed most, such as:

  • Non-perishable food (canned goods, dry pasta, rice).
  • Bottled water.
  • Personal hygiene items (toiletries, diapers, feminine hygiene products).
  • First aid kits and medical supplies.

Be sure to confirm the needs of the communities before donating physical items to ensure that your contributions are useful and not overwhelming to relief efforts.

Long-Term Recovery Efforts

Even after Hurricanes Milton and Helene pass, the recovery process will take months, if not years. Homes will need to be rebuilt, businesses restored, and infrastructure repaired. You can play a role in supporting these long-term efforts by:

  • Donating to organizations that focus on rebuilding communities, such as Habitat for Humanity or Rebuilding Together.
  • Supporting local businesses in the affected areas by buying from them once they reopen.
  • Advocating for stronger disaster preparedness policies in vulnerable regions to mitigate future hurricane damage.

United for a Cause: Helping Communities Recover

At United for a Cause, we are mobilizing resources to assist communities impacted by Hurricanes Milton and Helene. From providing food and water to coordinating long-term recovery plans, we are dedicated to helping those affected by these devastating storms. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, or help spread awareness, your support will directly contribute to the relief and recovery efforts.