ST. PETE BEACH, Fla: To those who live on the narrow spit of land that is the Pass-a-Grille neighborhood - the tail end of barrier islands extending from St. Pete Beach up to Clearwater known as "The Key West of Tampa Bay beaches” - it's a slice of paradise developed at the turn of the century and historically sheltered from major storms.

Officials have ordered all tourists to leave as well as all RVs. Mandatory evacuations also are in place for residents in Highland View, Wind Mark, St. Joe Beach, Beacon Hill to the county line and for the City of Port St. Joe for everyone from St. Joseph Bay to North Garrison Avenue and everyone from the bay to Garrison Avenue.

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.