In Clearwater, one of the hardest-hit regions, water levels surged to a record 8.6 feet, eclipsing the previous high of 6.8 feet. Similarly, in East Bay, levels peaked at 7.3 feet, surpassing the old record of 6.7 feet.

As the clock ticks down, activity has ramped up in Cedar Key on Wednesday, where residents and business owners are racing to evacuate ahead of Hurricane Helene.