Southeast US under major storm warning as hurricane watches issued

"Parts of Cuba and Mexico are under a hurricane watch as the storm system is expected to strengthen into Hurricane Helene, potentially reaching the Gulf Coast by midweek."

"The system of storms is forecast to develop into Hurricane Helene, which could have maximum sustained winds of 177km/h, bordering on Category 3 classification."

"Warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico are likely to provide the storm with significant strengthening potential, as it tracks over a warm eddy in the eastern Gulf."

"A hurricane watch has been issued for the province of Pinar del Rio in Cuba and parts of the Yucatan Peninsula, with heavy rainfall expected in affected areas."

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