Hurricane Helene: Scientists deploy sensors along Florida’s Gulf coast

Updated: Sep 26, 2024 / 10:49 AM CDT

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The U.S. Geological Survey has deployed 13 wave sensors ahead of Hurricane Helene to analyze the storm and collect data.

The sensors, put between Venice and Panama City, will measure water levels and provide data on wave height and frequency, storm tide, and storm surge, scientists said on Wednesday.

They will be installed inside vented, aluminum pipes on bridges, piers, and other structures.

“Studying Helene and other storms gives real-world insight that’s valuable in helping with community preparedness,” Kevin Grimsley, the associate center director for data with the USGS Caribbean-Florida Water Science Center said. “Wave sensors capture data at a very high frequency, so we are able to receive extremely detailed and comprehensive records.”

This photograph, taken during a previous storm, shows a USGS scientist installing a storm tide sensor on a bridge. Those sensors use the same metal housing that can hold USGS wave sensors. (Credit: Jonathan Willis, USGS)

The information from this hurricane will be used to “fine-tune” future storms, coastal change forecasts, flood insurance maps, and building codes to improve structural designs.

According to the USGS, the data can also show specific areas hit hardest by storm surges and should help emergency officials with recovery efforts.