Tropical Storm Francine forecast to become a hurricane bringing impacts to Louisiana
BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — The 7 p.m. CDT Monday update from the National Hurricane Center states that Tropical Storm Francine continues to get better organized with max sustained winds at 65 mph located in the Southwestern Gulf of Mexico.
The storm will move to the northwest slowly at first before turning to the northeast on Tuesday as it speeds up towards the Southwestern Louisiana coast. The storm is forecast to strengthen to a hurricane by Tuesday with additional intensification to a category 2 just before landfall.
We’ll feel early impacts on Tuesday as more rain begins spreading northward into our area. Rain coverage will increase into early Wednesday as rain bands wrap inland and last for much of the day into the night.
Hurricane (red) and tropical storm (blue) warnings have been posted for a good portion of Southeast Louisiana with tropical storm watches (yellow) expanded northwards into Southwest Mississippi. Hurricane conditions are possible by Wednesday afternoon within the warning, and tropical storm conditions are expected by Wednesday morning into the afternoon within its respective watch and warning area.
Entergy Louisiana getting ready for potential storm, offers ways for customers to prepare
Impacts
Wind
A good portion of the area will experience gusty winds with wind speeds increasing the further southwest towards the coast you are. Max wind speeds of strong tropical storm strength (≥58mph) will generally be possible west of the I-55 corridor including the Greater Baton Rouge area with sustained hurricane force winds possible along the coast line. Winds can certainly gust higher as well with power outages possible across the region. Tropical storm force conditions will likely begin by early Wednesday moving inland towards the afternoon.
Rainfall and Flooding
Persistent rainfall over the area along with bands of heavy rain will add up causing potential flooding. On average, 4-7 inches could be possible through the event with locally higher amounts possible. This rainfall on top of already saturated grounds from rain last week will increase the flood threat. There is a Flood Watch in effect area wide until 7 AM Thursday.
- Estimated Rainfall Totals
- Flood Watch
Tornadoes
With Southeastern Louisiana likely on the eastern side of the storm, there will be the threat for tornadoes within the rain bands that move ashore. There is a slight risk (2/5) for these storms that can produce tornadoes.
In a tropical system, these tornadoes are typically quick hitting and short-lived so it is vital to have multiple ways to receive warnings.
Storm Surge
Potential storm surge numbers along the Louisiana coast could reach as high as 5-10 feet from Cameron to Port Fourchon. Surge in downtown Baton Rouge will likely not be an issue, but 2-4 feet could be possible along Southern Livingston parish along Lake Maurepas.
How to Prepare
Have an emergency plan ready for you and your family (pets included).
Have at least three to five days’ worth of food and a few gallons of water (non-perishable items) for you and your pets.
Have first aid items like band-aids, gauze, alcohol wipes and sanitizer.
Pack medicine for all members (including pets).
Have flashlights, batteries, candles and matches. Battery-powered candles will also be beneficial.
Pack your important documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, insurance forms, etc. inside a waterproof casing. A Ziploc bag or plastic zip-up folder will work. Use some type of plastic container to protect your items from water damage.
Use a battery-powered weather radio to stay updated on the forecast and make sure all devices are charged.
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