Tracking Tropical Storm Francine: Forecast predicts landfall in Louisiana as a hurricane

Tropical Storm Francine is churning in the Gulf and is set to strengthen to a hurricane before making landfall in Louisiana.

Francine is forecast to be a Category 1 hurricane with 85 mph winds by Wednesday. Landfall is forecast in western Louisiana on Wednesday afternoon.

A hurricane watch has been issued in Louisiana, from Cameron to Grand Isle.

A storm surge watch is in effect from Texas to the Mississippi-Alabama border.

By Tuesday morning, Francine’s outer bands will bring heavy rain and gusty winds to Texas. The rough weather will last through the day along the coast, including Houston.

By Wednesday morning, conditions will deteriorate rapidly in southwestern Louisiana. Heavy rain and flooding is expected throughout the day.

About 5 to 8 inches of rain, with locally up to 1 foot, is forecast from Louisiana to the western Florida Panhandle through Thursday morning.

Tropical Storm Francine is currently making its way through the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to make landfall in Louisiana as a hurricane in the coming days. The storm, which formed in the Atlantic Ocean earlier this week, has been steadily gaining strength and is now classified as a tropical storm with winds of up to 60 mph.

The National Hurricane Center has been closely monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Francine and has issued a hurricane warning for parts of the Louisiana coast. Residents in the affected areas are being urged to take precautions and prepare for the possibility of high winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding.

Forecasters are predicting that Tropical Storm Francine will continue to strengthen as it moves closer to the Louisiana coast. The storm is expected to make landfall as a Category 1 hurricane, with winds of up to 74 mph. In addition to strong winds, the storm is also expected to bring heavy rainfall, which could lead to flash flooding in some areas.

Officials in Louisiana are urging residents to stay informed about the storm and to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. This includes securing outdoor furniture, stocking up on supplies, and making a plan for evacuation if necessary.

In addition to the potential impact on residents, Tropical Storm Francine could also have an effect on oil and gas production in the Gulf of Mexico. Many oil rigs and refineries are located in the path of the storm, and companies are taking steps to secure their facilities and ensure the safety of their workers.

Overall, Tropical Storm Francine is a reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared for severe weather events and taking steps to protect ourselves and our communities. As the storm continues to track towards Louisiana, residents should stay informed and be ready to take action if necessary.