Helene now forecast to become "catastrophic" category 4 hurricane

The National Hurricane Center says Hurricane Helene is getting stronger, and is expected to have sustained winds up to 130 miles per hour.

That would make it a category four hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

The NHC says category four storms cause catastrophic damage.

"Well-built framed homes can sustain severe damage with loss of most of the roof structure and/or some exterior walls," the hurricane center warns. "Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed. Fallen trees and power poles will isolate residential areas. Power outages will last weeks to possibly months. Most of the area will be uninhabitable for weeks or months."

Forecasters say time is running out to prepare.

"Preparations to protect life and property should be rushed to completion," according to the NHC. "This is a life-threatening situation. Persons located within these areas should take all necessary actions to protect life and property from rising water and the potential for other dangerous conditions.

Landfall is forecast for Thursday evening in Florida's Big Bend region.