By Beth Barhydt
With Hurricane Helene expected to form within the next 24 to 48 hours, the American Red Cross is mobilizing to respond to what could be the fourth major storm to strike the Gulf Coast this year. The developing system, currently in the Caribbean, is predicted to rapidly intensify into a Category 3 hurricane, bringing winds of up to 115 mph as it approaches the Florida Panhandle and potentially other areas along the Gulf Coast later this week.
Stephanie Dunn Ashley, Executive Director for the regional American Red Cross chapter, emphasized the urgency of the situation. “The American Red Cross has already mobilized to ensure residents along the impact path have safe shelter and timely assistance, allowing us to fulfill our mission to prevent and alleviate human suffering. The Red Cross workforce and resources are being positioned now because help can’t wait,” she said. As part of its response, the Red Cross has opened a Level 5 Disaster Operation in Florida and a Level 3 in Georgia, deploying 250 responders, 10 Emergency Response Vehicles, and 35,000 shelf-stable meals, with shelter supplies to support at least 3,000 evacuees.
The looming threat of Hurricane Helene comes amid an already active hurricane season that experts warn could see further intensification in the weeks ahead. According to NOAA, warm ocean temperatures are creating ideal conditions for rapid storm development, a trend that may continue through October. With forecasters predicting up to 23 named storms this season, the Red Cross expects to face continuous disaster response demands across multiple regions.
Brad J. Kieserman, Vice President of Disaster Operations and Logistics at the Red Cross, highlighted the need for ongoing readiness: “We are implementing an impressive array of cost management interventions on major operations, but presence is a mission. Our partners and the communities we serve expect and need us to show up before landfall and then to sustain disaster relief services for as long as it takes.” This proactive approach is critical as Helene could be followed by additional storms, adding strain to already stretched resources.
The Red Cross relies heavily on volunteers to meet the escalating demands of disaster response. Those interested in helping can sign up through the Red Cross’s website, where they can find opportunities to provide support, from staffing shelters to distributing meals and assisting with logistics. Volunteers are also needed to manage blood drives, assist with family reunification efforts, and provide emotional support to those affected by the storm.
Stephanie Dunn Ashley encourages community involvement: “We’re deploying teams and resources quickly, but we can always use more hands on the ground. Volunteering is one of the most impactful ways you can help your neighbors in need during a disaster.”
Financial contributions are also essential in funding disaster response operations. Donations help ensure the Red Cross can provide food, shelter, and emergency assistance to those in the storm’s path. Local residents can also support by donating blood, as the need for blood often spikes following major disasters due to disruptions in local supplies.
With Helene on the horizon, residents along the Gulf Coast are urged to finalize their evacuation plans, secure their homes, and prepare for extended power outages. The Red Cross advises stocking up on essential supplies, such as water, non-perishable food, medications, and emergency kits. Communication with family members and planning for pets are also key components of storm preparedness.
Those traveling in or out of the affected regions should monitor flight updates and consider alternative routes as travel disruptions are expected. The Red Cross also emphasizes the importance of having backup power sources for communication devices, as staying informed during the storm is crucial.
For ongoing updates and more information on how to volunteer or donate, visit the [American Red Cross](https://www.redcross.org) or follow local alerts from the [National Hurricane Center](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov). The Red Cross is committed to being on the front lines before, during, and after Hurricane Helene, providing vital support to communities in need.
