NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Hurricane Helene made landfall Thursday evening in the Big Bend of Florida as a Category 4 hurricane at about 10:10 PM CDT just east of the mouth of the Aucilla River. This is about 10 miles west-southwest of Perry, Florida. Based on data from reconnaissance aircraft, the maximum sustained winds are estimated to be 140 mph and the minimum central pressure is 938 mb. Strong winds will continue well inland due to the fast forward speed of the storm. This will likely cause widespread power outages across several states. Once again a high flood threat exists from the Florida panhandle up through western North Carolina. This could be a life-threatening situation for some areas. Continue to stick with WGNO for the latest on Helene and the tropics. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Helene makes landfall in the Big Bend of Florida Ammonia Plant public hearing canceled due to overwhelming crowd WATCH: Saildrone captures video from inside Hurricane Helene Florida sheriff gives somber advice to residents who defied mandatory evacuation order Florida sheriff asks people who didn't evacuate to write contact info on leg