Hurricane Helene made landfall near Perry Florida, on Thursday at 11:10 p.m., hitting as a powerful Category 4 storm. The eye of Helene struck Taylor County, just east of the mouth of the Aucilla River and approximately 10 miles west-southwest of Perry, according to the National Hurricane Center.
The storm impacted the Big Bend region of Florida, which is known for its unique geography that curves around the Gulf of Mexico. This area includes Jefferson, Taylor, Dixie, and Levy counties, and is characterized by its largely “untamed coastal landscape,” as described by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The Big Bend region is home to various ecosystems, including wetlands, estuaries, and wildlife reserves, making it an area of both natural beauty and vulnerability.
Perry is the only incorporated city in Taylor County and is about 50 miles from Tallahassee, the state capital. With a population estimated at 7,017 as of 2010, Perry is known for its rich history and community spirit. The city was incorporated in 1903 and adopted its City Charter on May 12, 1981. Named after Madison Stark Perry Florida’s fourth governor, the town takes pride in being the “Tree Capital of the South.” It hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the renowned “World’s Largest Free Fish Fry,” which attracts thousands of visitors.
The storm made landfall in a region that has experienced significant hurricane activity in recent months. Helene struck just 38 miles from Steinhatchee, where Hurricane Debby made landfall last month, and about 30 miles northwest of Keaton Beach, which was affected by Hurricane Idalia in August 2023. Authorities warned of a catastrophic, life-threatening storm surge expected to reach between 10 and 20 feet above ground level, with rainfall totals projected to be between 6 to 12 inches, and isolated areas potentially receiving up to 20 inches.
In preparation for the hurricane, local officials urged residents to take necessary precautions, including securing homes and evacuating if advised. Emergency services were on high alert, ready to respond to any incidents caused by the storm. The National Guard and other agencies were deployed to assist in rescue efforts and provide aid to those in need.
As the community braces for the impacts of Hurricane Helene, officials continue to monitor the situation closely, ensuring that resources are available to support recovery efforts. The region’s history of resilience in the face of natural disasters is a testament to the strength and determination of its residents. In the coming days, as the storm passes, assessments will be made to evaluate the extent of the damage and the necessary steps for recovery and rebuilding.
