*UPDATED 11:18 a.m.*
POLK COUNTY—A Tropical Storm Warning and Flood Warning have been issued for parts of Polk County as the effects of Hurricane Helene are felt across the area. Helene strengthened to a Category 2 storm on Thursday, and as of the 11 a.m. was moving northeast at 12 mph, about 320 miles southwest of Tampa, Fla.
The National Weather Service issued the advisories for Western North Carolina and the Upstate. Heavy rain and the potential for high winds throughout Thursday and Friday are expected. There is a possibility of downed trees and power lines from Thursday night into Friday morning.
Heavy rainfall is a significant concern. An additional 6 to 10 inches of precipitation is expected, with higher amounts in some areas.
“Rivers and tributaries may overwhelmingly overflow their banks in many places with deep moving water,” the advisory states. “Small streams, creeks, and ditches may become raging rivers. In mountain areas, deadly runoff may rage down valleys while increasing susceptibility to rockslides and mudslides. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed.”