Rains and floods in South Florida due to the approach of Hurricane Helene.

The proximity of Hurricane Helene, which could hit Florida as a category three or four this Thursday, has caused rains and flooding in the southern part of the state, especially in the Gulf counties and Miami-Dade.

The quickly moving Category 2 storm in the Gulf of Mexico began to affect southern Florida this Thursday with heavy rains and winds, reported Local 10.

The rain bands of the broad cyclone struck the Keys, where waves hit the iconic 90-mile buoy in Key West.

The wind shook the lush royal poincianas and the resilient seagrape bushes, while dry leaves and debris quickly clogged some drainage systems, causing minor flooding in the streets.

Voluntary residents organized themselves to clean the drains and prevent the floods from worsening.

Due to the risk, the schools in Monroe County and the district school offices were closed this Thursday.

The rains, although intense, have not caused significant damage in Key West, although the streets were affected by flooding.

Strong winds and heavy rains are also reported in Miami.

In Cuba, Helene had already prompted evacuations in flood-prone areas in the provinces of Pinar del Río and Artemisa before heading north.

The governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, declared a state of emergency statewide as the hurricane continues its path toward the coast.

The cyclone is expected to make landfall on Thursday night in the Big Bend area as a powerful Category 4 hurricane, raising concerns in the coastal areas of Florida facing the Gulf of Mexico.

Local authorities have urged residents to take precautions and follow evacuation orders in vulnerable areas.