National Weather Service Issues Warnings and Watches as Tropical Storm Francine Continues to Strengthen
Louisiana – The National Weather Service has issued a series of warnings and watches as Tropical Storm Francine continues to strengthen in the Western Gulf of Mexico. With sustained winds of 60 mph and higher gusts, Francine is expected to become a hurricane before making landfall on Wednesday.
Residents of Louisiana and Southeast Texas should brace for impact, as confidence grows for excessive rainfall, flooding, and coastal flooding. The storm surge could reach as high as 5 to 10 feet east of Cameron, Louisiana, and 3 to 5 feet west of Cameron, depending on the track of the storm center.
A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for areas including High Island, Texas, east to the Mississippi/Alabama Border, Vermilion Bay, Lake Maurepas, and Lake Pontchartrain are also included. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for the Louisiana coast from Cameron eastward to Grand Isle, while a Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for several regions, including Barra del Tordo to the Mouth of the Rio Grande and East of High Island, Texas, to Cameron, Louisiana.
As of 1 pm CDT on September 9, 2024, the center of Tropical Storm Francine was located near latitude 23.7 North, longitude 95.8 West, moving north-northwest at 5 mph. The slow motion is expected to continue throughout the day, followed by a faster northeastward motion on Tuesday.
Air Force reconnaissance data indicates that Francine’s maximum sustained winds have increased, with further intensification expected over the next day. The storm is forecast to reach hurricane strength before making landfall on Wednesday, bringing tropical storm-force winds that extend up to 160 miles from the center.
Residents in the affected areas are urged to take necessary precautions and stay informed about the latest developments. With the potential for catastrophic flooding and coastal damage, it is essential to prioritize safety and follow evacuation orders if issued.
Coastal Watches/Warnings and Forecast Cone for Storm Center of Francine
Tropical Storm Force Wind Speed Probabilities for Francine
