Hurricane Francine Nears Gulf Coast: Key Updates and Preparations
Hurricane Francine is inching closer to the Gulf Coast, threatening to unleash significant damage on Louisiana and Texas.
Residents across the region are bracing for the storm’s landfall, which is expected to happen later today.
With dangerous storm surges, high winds, and potential flooding, local officials are urging caution and preparedness. Here are the latest developments as of Wednesday morning.
New Orleans Public Transit Adjustments
The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) has announced modifications to bus, streetcar, and ferry services in anticipation of Hurricane Francine. As of today, Wednesday, the bus and streetcar services will operate on a reduced schedule.
Authorities are closely monitoring weather conditions and will make further announcements regarding Thursday services.
Additionally, all ferry services have been suspended until further notice. The RTA has promised to provide frequent updates as conditions evolve.
NOLA Schools Shut Down Ahead of Francine
In response to Hurricane Francine, NOLA Public Schools has decided to close all schools and the district’s Central Office both today and Thursday.
On Tuesday, schools dismissed students early to give families more time to prepare for the storm.
District officials stated that they will assess the storm’s impact on Thursday and share reopening plans once it is safe to do so.
Impacts Will Arrive Before Landfall
Although Hurricane Francine is forecasted to make landfall later this afternoon or evening, its impacts will be felt well before that.
As of 5 a.m. ET, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) issued an advisory warning of life-threatening storm surge and hurricane-force winds expected to begin in Louisiana later today.
The storm, which was approximately 245 miles southwest of Morgan City, Louisiana, is moving at a speed of about 10 mph, creating the potential for severe conditions ahead of its arrival.
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Francine Becomes the Sixth Named Storm of 2024
Hurricane Francine marks the sixth named storm of the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season. Earlier this year, Tropical Storm Alberto kicked off the season in July, causing minimal damage in the U.S.
Hurricane Beryl followed, making headlines for its record-breaking early-season intensity and devastating parts of the Caribbean before striking Texas.
Other storms include Hurricane Chris, which was relatively insignificant, and Hurricane Debby, which drenched parts of Florida with heavy rain and flooding. Most recently, Hurricane Ernesto caused disruption after making landfall in Bermuda.
Mississippi Declares State of Emergency
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves declared a state of emergency on Tuesday in anticipation of Hurricane Francine’s arrival.
This declaration allows the state to mobilize resources and provide rapid assistance as needed.
Shelters have already opened in several counties, including Harrison, Hancock, Jackson, Pearl River, and Pike, to accommodate evacuees.
Voluntary evacuations have also been issued in low-lying areas due to the heightened risk of flash flooding, particularly from the storm’s outer bands.
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Louisiana’s History of Devastating Hurricanes
Louisiana has a long history of destructive hurricanes, including the infamous Hurricane Katrina, as well as Hurricane Laura and Hurricane Rita.
Over the last two centuries, Louisiana has been impacted by 57 hurricanes, with some of the strongest storms making landfall there.
In 2020 alone, the state endured three hurricanes in just two months. Now, Hurricane Francine adds to this list as it approaches, once again putting Louisiana’s coastal areas in harm’s way.
Stay Safe
As Hurricane Francine edges closer to the Gulf Coast, the next few hours will be critical for those in its path.
With public transportation modified, schools closed, and emergency shelters opened across Mississippi and Louisiana, local authorities are urging residents to stay informed and heed evacuation warnings where necessary.
As the storm progresses, officials will continue to monitor its effects, and further updates will be made available throughout the day.