Tropical Storm Francine Strengthens Into Hurricane, Hits Louisiana

The border of Texas and Louisiana is going to be a dangerous place to be this week. A large tropical storm is predicted to develop into a hurricane. Are you prepared for power outages, to evacuate or ride out the storm?

Tropical Storm Francine in the Gulf of Mexico is expected to develop into a hurricane. Models show it pushing northwest into the Eastern Texas/Western Louisiana area by late Wednesday and into Thursday, according to the National Hurricane Center on Monday morning. Some models have it sliding to the east a bit more sparing Texas but hitting Louisiana straight on.  

The storm will batter the area with storm surge, flooding, isolated tornadoes, high winds, and up to 12 inches of rain, according to the National Weather Service. In addition to your typical damaging winds and rain, rip tides and damaging surf will also cause havoc and threaten life.

“We've got wet weather ahead," said NWS meteorologist Kevin Gilmore.

Given recent rains in the region, the ground has become saturated, so there is a greater chance of flooding. Keep an eye on local weather watches and warnings and prepare for the worst now.

Be safe if you live anywhere near the region and get your home and business prepared. When it comes to protecting your business assets, Generator Source can help in the region. Learn more about hurricane prep here.

Our team operates out of Austin and Pensacola and can help in all the Southern Gulf States. We can help you prepare by providing field services and maintenance of your current generator. We also offer rentals if you need help recovering when power is out. We also sell industrial units worldwide (60 Hz).

Power outages are common with hurricanes. Just two months ago, Hurricane Beryl came through Texas and caused damage, flooding and extensive power outages with 3 million people left in the dark. It took the utility over two weeks to get back on the grid. That storm was only a CAT 1 hurricane too.

Call now to set the ball in motion and protect your livelihood. Generator Source can also help power your operation with a portable or stationary unit to help with recovery. With 43 years’ experience in the industrial power industry, we have tackled emergency power needs for Florida and Texas. We are well versed in hurricane prep and recovery.

To reach our Austin office for service, sales or rentals, call (512) 631-9998. To reach Pensacola, call (850) 378-1064. We are also in Jacksonville at (904) 914-7355. Learn more here. 

As the calendar turns to mid-September, keep us in mind in Colorado too. If you need to prepare your generator for winter, call our Colorado office at (303) 500-8928.

Story Summary

Where is Tropical Storm Francine currently located?
As of Monday morning, Francine was located in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico, approximately 180 miles east of Mexico's Tamaulipas State.

What is the current strength of the storm?
Francine currently has maximum sustained winds of 50 mph.

When and where is landfall expected?
Francine is forecast to make landfall along the Louisiana coastline by Wednesday evening.

What areas are under hurricane watches?
A hurricane watch is in effect for much of the Louisiana coast from Cameron to Grand Isle.

How much rainfall is expected?
Rainfall amounts of 4-8 inches are forecast for southeast Louisiana, with some areas potentially receiving higher totals. Up to 12 inches of rain is possible in some locations along the Texas and Louisiana coasts.

What other hazards are associated with this storm?
Life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, flash flooding, and isolated tornadoes are all potential hazards as Francine approaches.

What should residents in the affected areas do to prepare?
The National Weather Service advises residents to:

• Review emergency plans and supplies
• Charge electronic devices
• Stock up on water
• Clear debris from drains
• Check first aid kits and medications
• Make plans for pets

When should preparations be completed?
Residents should complete preparations as soon as possible, ideally by Tuesday night before conditions begin to deteriorate.

Why did this storm develop so quickly?
The unusually warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico are contributing to the storm's rapid formation and intensification.

Is this storm unusual for September?
No, September and October are peak months for tropical storm and hurricane formation in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean.

Graphic Via NOAA
 

Brian La Rue | 9/9/2024 12:53:57 PM | 0 comments