Tropical Storm Francine Expected to Strengthen into Hurricane Before Louisiana Landfall
Tropical Storm Francine, which formed in the Gulf of Mexico on Monday, is expected to intensify into a Category 1 hurricane by Tuesday, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm is projected to make landfall in Louisiana by Wednesday, bringing heavy rainfall and potential flooding to the region.
Storm’s Path and Forecast
The National Hurricane Center forecasts that Francine will strengthen significantly on Tuesday afternoon, reaching peak intensity within 24 hours of striking land. The center released a statement early Tuesday: “Francine is anticipated to be just offshore of the coasts of northeastern Mexico and southern Texas through today and make landfall in Louisiana on Wednesday.”
As of 2 p.m. ET, Francine was about 130 miles east-southeast of the Rio Grande’s mouth and roughly 380 miles southwest of Morgan City, Louisiana. The storm is moving northeast at 9 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph. It is expected to turn eastward, increasing speed slightly as it approaches the Louisiana coast.
Rainfall and Flooding Concerns
Heavy rainfall is expected across Louisiana and Mississippi, with storm totals ranging from 4 to 8 inches. Some areas could see as much as 12 inches through Friday morning. The National Hurricane Center warned of “considerable” flash flooding and urban flooding due to the intense rainfall, which could lead to road closures, power outages, and damage to infrastructure.
State of Emergency Declared in Louisiana
In anticipation of Francine’s landfall, Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry declared a state of emergency Monday evening. This declaration ensures that local officials and first responders will have the support they need to respond effectively to the storm, including access to additional resources, coordination with federal agencies, and the ability to implement evacuation orders if necessary.
Hurricane and Storm Surge Warnings Issued
A hurricane warning from Sabine Pass to Grand Isle has been issued for the Louisiana coast, meaning hurricane conditions, including sustained winds of at least 74 mph, are expected within the warning area. A tropical storm warning extends eastward to the Mississippi-Alabama border, indicating that tropical storm conditions, with winds of 39 to 73 mph, are expected in these areas. Major areas like New Orleans, Lake Pontchartrain, and Lake Maurepas are included in the warnings. Additionally, a tropical storm watch was issued for the coastal regions of Alabama and the Texas coast from Matagorda to High Island.
Storm surge warnings are in effect from High Island, Texas, to the Mississippi-Alabama border, signaling the potential for life-threatening inundation within the next 36 hours.
Preparations Underway
The National Hurricane Center emphasized that residents in the warning areas should complete preparations before the arrival of tropical-storm-force winds, which could hinder efforts. Hurricane conditions are expected in the warning areas on Wednesday, with tropical storm conditions expected across northeastern Mexico, southern Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and possibly Alabama.
Francine Marks a Busy Atlantic Season
Tropical Storm Francine is the sixth named storm of the Atlantic season, following a relatively calm August and early September. Despite the slow start, experts still predict an above-normal season overall.
As Francine approaches the Louisiana coast, residents are urged to stay informed and prepare for possible evacuations or other necessary safety measures.