As a potentially catastrophic Hurricane Helene churned its way north, residents of the state’s capital hit the few remaining stores and restaurants still open Thursday — or took solace in their decision to get out before the storm struck.

Ahead of Hurricane Helene's arrival, last-minute preparations were taking place in Tallahassee, where some gas stations had started to run out of gas.

A spokesperson for Waffle House did not say how many restaurants would close in preparation for Hurricane Helene, but many in Tallahassee closed.