Florida is bracing for major impacts as Hurricane Helene approaches the coast. Mandatory evacuations are in effect across the state, affecting more than two dozen counties. Even neighboring states have issued warnings as the large storm is expected to move far inland. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has declared a state of emergency for all of Georgia, as has Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin for his state.

Residents in the Southeast should prepare for continued severe weather even after landfall. Residents in multiple states were bracing for Helene yesterday. Click here to see our coverage from yesterday.

The storm is approaching and the time left to evacuate is decreasing. Here is the latest:

(MORE: Hurricane Tracker Maps | Latest prediction)

(6:50 a.m. ET) Flooding could lead to more alligator, snake sightings

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission warned that alligators and snakes could be seen more often than usual in flooded areas. “Keep them away and give them space,” the agency wrote on X.

(MORE: Resident finds alligator in flood water)

(6:45 a.m. ET) 911 may not be available once the storm hits

In a strongly worded storm advisory, the National Weather Service in Tallahassee reminded residents that 911 services may not be immediately available if conditions are unsafe. “This should be an important factor in your decision-making,” about sheltering in place or evacuating, the agency said. “Failure to adequately shelter in place could result in serious injury or loss of life.”

(6:30 a.m. ET) Mechanics stationed in Florida

(6:15 a.m. ET) Helene studied by advanced technology

A specialized system developed by the University of Florida, known as “Sentinel,” will collect advanced data as Helene approaches Florida. “Data and video will be shared with a broad spectrum of research, operational, and commercial partners, as well as interests supporting local response and recovery efforts, such as state departments of environmental protection or natural resources,” according to the Florida Climate Institute.

(6:00 a.m. ET) Alabama DOT Opens Evacuation Routes

The Alabama Department of Transportation has announced that it is opening the state’s evacuation routes as neighboring Florida issues evacuation orders in some counties. At least a dozen roads have been designated for evacuation. “To accommodate evacuation traffic, ALDOT has ordered an end to non-essential lane restrictions or lane closures on all state, U.S. and interstate highways,” the agency said.

(5:30 a.m. ET) What are hurricane categories?

We talk a lot about hurricane categories, but what exactly do they mean? Here’s a look at the Saffir-Simpson scale, which rates hurricanes based on wind speed:

-Category 1: Very dangerous winds cause damage and can kill or injure.

-Category 2: Extremely dangerous winds cause extensive damage and a significant risk of injury or death.

-Category 3: Extensive damage will occur, with a high risk of injury or death.

-Category 4: Catastrophic damage will occur, with a very high risk that people will die.

You can read more about hurricane categories here.