As of 10 p.m. ET, Hurricane Helene remains a powerful Category 4 storm with sustained winds of 140 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm's eyewall, where the most intense winds are located, has begun to move over the coast in Florida's Big Bend region.
The region is currently experiencing powerful winds that are expected to persist for the next several hours, posing a significant threat to residents. The storm surge accompanying Helene is described as life-threatening and potentially unsurvivable, prompting authorities to issue an extreme wind warning for parts of the Big Bend area.
Helene is forecasted to make landfall, defined as when at least half of the hurricane's eye crosses over land, during the 11 p.m. ET/10 p.m. CT hour. Residents in the affected areas are urged to take all necessary precautions and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety.
