Tropical Storm Francine Strengthens Before Louisiana Landfall

Tropical Storm Francine is rapidly strengthening in the Gulf of Mexico and is expected to make landfall as a Category 2 hurricane in southern Louisiana on Wednesday. With maximum winds reaching up to 110 mph, hurricane warnings are in effect from the Texas border to Grand Isle, and storm surge warnings are issued from just east of Houston to the mouth of the Mississippi River. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has urged residents to prepare and heed evacuation notices, emphasizing the importance of acting early to avoid last-minute chaos. Forecasts predict significant rainfall of 4 to 12 inches across Louisiana and Mississippi, increasing the risk of flash flooding. Additionally, hurricane-force winds and life-threatening storm surges of up to 10 feet are expected. Regions still recovering from previous hurricanes face heightened vulnerability as Francine approaches.