Hurricane Helene to reach Cat 4 winds, Big Bend, Georgia braces | LiveNOW from FOX

How are you preparing for the expected impact of Hurricane Helene in Florida’s Big Bend? #HurricaneHelene #FloridaBigBend #CatastrophicWinds #StormPrep #WeatherAlert

Hurricane Helene is rapidly intensifying into a dangerous Category 4 hurricane before landfall in Florida, according to the National Hurricane Center. Meteorologists say the storm's massive size and intensity will lead to devastating impacts for Florida and Georgia.

The National Weather Service in Tallahassee forecast storm surges of up to 20 feet.

“This forecast, if realized, is a nightmare surge scenario for Apalachee Bay,” the NWS said. “Please, please, please take any evacuation orders seriously!"

Atlanta, Georgia: Helene could be the worst strike on a major Southern inland city in 35 years, according to the University of Georgia professor Marshall Shepard.

Helene marks the eighth named storm of the Atlantic Hurricane season, which began on June 1st. Officials are also tracking Tropical Storm Isaac, which formed on Wednesday in the Atlantic and is expected to strengthen as it moves east.