Francine Downgraded to Tropical Storm After Slamming Louisiana as Category 2 Hurricane

Francine weakened to a tropical storm late Wednesday after making landfall in Louisiana as a Category 2 hurricane. The storm knocked out power for over 275,000 homes and businesses, flooded coastal communities with storm surge, and raised concerns of widespread flooding across New Orleans and beyond. Drenching rains are now moving northward over the Gulf Coast.

Storm Path and Flooding Threats

The National Hurricane Center forecasts Francine will be downgraded to a tropical depression by Thursday as it heads into Mississippi. The region is bracing for 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) of rain, with possible flash flooding stretching as far as Jackson, Mississippi; Birmingham, Alabama; Memphis, Tennessee; and Atlanta, Georgia. This could lead to road closures, power outages, and disruptions to public services.

Impact on Louisiana

Francine made landfall in Terrebonne Parish with 100 mph (155 kph) winds, hitting a coastal area still recovering from the devastating hurricanes of 2020 and 2021. Despite this, the community showed remarkable resilience. Traveling at 17 mph (26 kph), the storm quickly reached New Orleans, dumping heavy rains on the city throughout the night.

Despite the intensity, no reports of casualties or significant injuries have been confirmed. News footage showed waves pounding sea walls, flooding streets, and trees swaying in the wind. In Morgan City, just 30 miles (50 kilometers) from where the storm hit, Fire Chief Alvin Cockerham expressed surprise at the storm’s severity: “It’s a little bit worse than what I expected, to be honest with you.”

Widespread Power Outages

Power outages spread rapidly across southeast Louisiana, affecting more than 362,000 homes and businesses shortly after landfall, according to the tracking site poweroutage.us. Residents in affected areas reported strong winds and rising floodwaters. Laura Leftwich, a Morgan City resident, shared her experience of sheltering at her mother’s home, noting how the storm’s winds swept away two large birdhouses and caused significant street flooding.

Preparing for Tornadoes and More Rain

The storm, the sixth named system of the Atlantic hurricane season, drew strength from the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. While now weakening, forecasters warn that tornadoes and heavy rain could still pose significant threats. Louisiana and Mississippi are expected to receive 4 to 8 inches (10 to 20 centimeters) of rain, with some areas possibly seeing up to 12 inches (30 centimeters). Residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for potential further challenges.

Emergency Response

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry announced that the National Guard has been deployed across parishes impacted by the storm, demonstrating the state’s preparedness and swift action. Equipped with high-water vehicles, boats, and helicopters, the Guard is ready for search-and-rescue operations and the distribution of essential supplies.

Mississippi is also taking precautions, with Governor Tate Reeves declaring a state of emergency. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency has distributed over 100,000 sandbags, and numerous school districts have closed in response to the storm’s threat.

Federal Assistance

President Joe Biden approved an emergency declaration to expedite federal aid for Louisiana, helping the state manage the aftermath of Francine. The storm is one of many that have struck Louisiana, which has experienced 57 hurricanes since the mid-19th century.

As Francine continues its northward journey, residents across the region are advised to stay alert for further updates and potential flash flooding. It’s crucial to stay informed through reliable sources and follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities to ensure personal and community safety.