As Hurricane Francine approaches, the National Weather Service in New Orleans has issued a slew of warnings for Southeast Louisiana and South Mississippi. The National Weather Service latest advisory, out this morning, highlights that some areas could face high winds, heavy rains, and storm surges as the hurricane makes its Northeastward journey across the Gulf of Mexico. With current predictions estimating around 2 to 3 inches of rainfall today and an additional 1 to 2 inches tonight, there's a tangible concern for flooding, hence the continuation of the flood watch through Thursday morning.
The wind forecast is not to be underestimated either. "Peak Wind Forecast: 25-35 mph with gusts to 60 mph," according to the National Weather Service's alarming update. Residents are to expect potential for wind 58 to 73 mph, as the city braces itself to face what could be equivalent to strong tropical storm force. In light of these predictions, the advice is clear: prepare for significant wind damage and move "to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous," a report by the weather service stated.
A number of warnings are in effect, including a Hurricane Warning and Storm Surge Warning for areas such as Coastal Jefferson Parish, Lower Lafourche, and Lower Terrebonne. The seriousness of the situation is further underscored by a Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch for regions including Lower Jefferson and Upper Jefferson. Across a broad swathe of Southeast Louisiana, residents are battening down the hatches, with local forecasts prompting everyone to complete their preparations as soon as possible.
Expected impacts from the storm include damage to "roofing and siding materials, along with damage to porches, awnings, carports, and sheds." The likelihood of large trees being snapped or uprooted alongside debris making some roads impassable just adds to the threatening picture painted by the National Weather Service. In a stark warning, they have also noted that "Scattered power and communications outages" are likely, particularly in areas with above-ground lines. With the storm's current location approximately 300 miles southwest of New Orleans, the city is urgently preparing for Francine's arrival.
