In a special update from the National Hurricane Center, Helene made landfall just east of the mouth of the Aucilla River. This is about 10 miles west-southwest of Perry, Florida. Based on data from Air Force reconnaissance aircraft, the maximum sustained winds are estimated to be 140 mph.

Hurricane Helene intensified into a major Category 4 hurricane with 140 mph making landfall Thursday night bringing devastating winds and storm surge to Florida’s Big Bend, according to the

As Hurricane Helene moves over the eastern Gulf of Mexico early Thursday morning and nears landfall in Florida's Big Bend coast, travel across Florida is facing major disruptions, with several airports closing ahead of the storm and airlines canceling hundreds of flights.

The hurricane’s storm surge could be devastating in the coastal areas of Florida’s Big Bend, where the peninsula meets the panhandle.

As Hurricane Helene closes in on a Florida landfall this week, Universal Orlando and Walt Disney World Resort are assessing their operations for the safety of guests and park staff.

As Hurricane Helene approaches Florida, theme parks will suspend operations Thursday to ensure everyone's safety. See the full list:

Long before its landfall late Thursday, Hurricane Helene and its intense wind and rain were already threatening millions of people in four states.