Final prep check-in from the Big Bend coast. Boards are up, supplies loaded in the truck. NHC has Helene at 125 mph with a 951 mb central pressure and moving NNE at 23 mph straight toward us. Hurricane Warning is in effect from Anclote River to Mexico Beach. If you're in that zone and haven't left, please go now.

Fire/rescue units in Taylor, Dixie, and Levy counties are staged and ready. Storm Surge Warning from Mexico Beach east and south to Flamingo is serious — that's up to 20 ft in Carrabelle to Suwannee River corridor. Please do not shelter in place in surge zones. Emergency management is asking all coastal residents to evacuate NOW.

Got my generator fueled, 72-hour kit packed, and pets crated. Headed inland to my sister's place in Gainesville. For anyone still riding it out: have shoes on at all times once winds pick up, stay away from windows, and have a way to break out of your attic if surge comes in fast.

Tropical-storm-force winds already at Venice — NHC reports 51 mph sustained with a 66 mph gust near Venice Beach. Hurricane-force winds extend 60 miles from center. Conditions will deteriorate very rapidly over the next few hours in the hurricane warning area. Stay safe, everyone.

Evacuated from Crystal River this morning. Watching the radar updates from a hotel in Ocala. The Chassahowitzka to Anclote River surge zone (8-12 ft) covers my park — so glad I left when I did. Thinking of everyone still on the coast.