Meteorologists observe tropical system that could hit the US Gulf Coast
The National Hurricane Center is monitoring three tropical disturbances as the peak of hurricane season approaches.
Scripps News
If you’re short on time, this story is for you. It offers a shorter and less graphic overview of what’s happening in the tropics. Click here for more details.
Tropical Storm Francine formed today and could make landfall as a hurricane
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Tropical storm warnings and watches issued for parts of the Gulf Coast
A storm surge warning applies to:
- From High Island, Texas to the Mississippi-Alabama border
- Vermilion Bay
- Lake Maurepas
- Lake Pontchartrain
A hurricane warning applies to:
- The Louisiana coast from Cameron eastward to Grand Isle
A tropical storm warning applies to:
- Barra del Tordo to the mouth of the Rio Grande
- Mouth of the Rio Grande to Port Mansfield
- East of High Island, Texas, to Cameron, Louisiana
- West of Grand Isle to the mouth of the Pearl River
- Lake Pontchartrain
- Lake Maurepas
Will Tropical Storm Francine become a hurricane?
Francine is expected to strengthen into a hurricane before reaching the U.S. land border sometime late Wednesday evening.
Will Tropical Storm Francine hit Florida?
It’s too early to say. Current models show the storm heading toward the Louisiana coast.
According to the National Hurricane Center, winds of up to 39 mph are expected as far east as Panama City on Wednesday, and storm surge could reach as far west as the Panhandle. Current forecasts predict 1-2 inches of rain along Florida’s Gulf Coast as far east as central and northern Florida, and 2-4 inches along the coast of the Alabama Panhandle as far east as Tallahassee.
Strong surf rip current warnings are in effect for Franklin County beaches through Monday night.
What should you do if you live in Florida?
Be prepared and keep an eye on weather reports. Make sure you have a hurricane plan and supplies.
