Hurricane Francine: Live Updates and Impact on Louisiana

Latest Updates on Hurricane Francine

Hurricane Francine was roaring through the Gulf of Mexico toward Louisiana on Wednesday morning, threatening a stretch of coastline scarred by a series of powerful storms in recent years. The prospect of yet another hurricane bringing heavy rains, strong winds and surging seas sent some residents scrambling to find supplies to ride out the storm and its aftermath, while others in low-lying areas were ordered to evacuate.

Storm Strength and Predictions

Francine strengthened into a Category 1 storm early Tuesday evening and could become more powerful before making landfall in Louisiana as early as Wednesday afternoon. Warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico could potentially serve as fuel for a rapidly intensifying storm, some experts have warned.

Emergency Measures in Response

The National Hurricane Center on Tuesday predicted the start of life-threatening storm surge and hurricane-force winds in Louisiana on Wednesday. Some areas of the state, such as Vermilion Bay, southwest of Baton Rouge, could see up to 10 feet of surge. President Biden approved a federal emergency declaration for the state to unlock more government assistance after a request from Gov. Jeff Landry. Local officials in several parishes closed schools, opened emergency shelters, and urged residents to not attempt to leave their neighborhoods until well after the storm had passed.

Preparedness in Neighboring States

In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott urged residents in the eastern part of the state to prepare for heavy rains and flooding. The possibility that the storm could veer away from its current predicted track over Louisiana and toward Texas adds to the urgency for residents to be ready.