Hurricane Francine Prompts Emergency Declarations

Hurricane Francine is expected to make landfall in Louisiana as a Category 1 or potentially Category 2 storm, bringing life-threatening conditions including storm surges up to 9 feet, heavy rains, and winds up to 100 mph. President Joe Biden and Governor Jeff Landry have declared states of emergency, facilitating federal assistance. Over ten parishes in Louisiana have issued evacuation orders, and significant portions of oil and gas production in the Gulf of Mexico have been shut down. The National Weather Service and state leaders urge residents to complete their preparations and shelter in place. The storm is projected to impact not only Louisiana but also Mississippi, Alabama, and the Florida Panhandle with significant flooding risks. Coastal areas from Texas to Florida are experiencing deteriorating conditions as the storm approaches.