news

The consequences of Francine’s weakening will still have consequences for our area

Vaseline September 12, 2024

(WALA) – Hurricane Francine made landfall today around 5 p.m. in Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana, about 30 miles southwest of Morgan City, Louisiana.

Francine was upgraded to a Category 2 storm before it made landfall. Its winds reached nearly 100 mph. By 7 p.m., its winds had slowed to 85 mph, making it a Category 1 storm.

We expect the storm to continue to weaken as it crosses Mississippi overnight. Despite the expected weakening, our region is still expecting impacts. Tropical storm conditions, possible tornadoes, coastal flooding, and dangerous rip currents are all possible.

We have seen little change in our local impact forecast.

Tornado threat

The Storm Prediction Center has placed our area at a Level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather. Tornadoes are possible. Be prepared by keeping your phone on for warnings, using a NOAA Weather Radio, and staying tuned to our live coverage for warnings.

Timing: The main window for possible tornadoes is from Wednesday night through very early Thursday morning. Be aware that there may be overnight warnings, so stay alert.

Flood risk

Heavy rainfall is expected, with coastal areas potentially receiving 4-7 inches and inland communities receiving 2-4 inches. Despite these high totals, our flood potential is somewhat limited due to the recent dry spell. Remember: Never drive on flooded roads.

Timing: Heavy rain is possible tonight into Thursday morning, with clear spells in the early morning hours. We expect the rain to clear out of our area fairly quickly by Thursday morning.

Wind forecast

Tropical storm force winds are possible in our area as Francine approaches. Expect winds of 39-57 mph, especially along the coast and in the western half of the FOX10 viewing area. There is a limited chance of downed trees, branches, and power lines, especially in our Mississippi counties.

Timing: Windy conditions will begin Wednesday afternoon, with the strongest winds Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Winds will gradually diminish by Thursday. The core of the tropical storm force winds will reach our Mississippi counties (Jackson, George and Green) after 7:00 PM, with the strongest winds along the coast. Tropical storm force winds of 39-57 mph will be possible across the area tonight. Winds will begin to diminish across the area in the early morning hours, although it will still be somewhat breezy for the first half of Thursday.

Dangerous rip currents and high waves

Francine brings life threatening surf conditions to our beaches. DO NOT enter the water as dangerous rip currents are expected tonight through Friday evening. Waves are expected to reach 8-11 feet, with some breakers possibly reaching 12+ feet. Beach erosion is also possible.

Time: The biggest waves can be expected from Wednesday evening to Thursday afternoon.

Stay tuned to FOX10 News for the latest information on Francine. Follow members of the STORMtracker team on social media for regular updates. Also, check out more information at fox10tv.com. School closings, the latest coastal reports, and more are available there.

Looking at our forecast, much calmer weather for Friday and the weekend. Skies will be partly to mostly sunny with highs in the upper 80s on Friday and Saturday. Sunday will be partly sunny with a chance of isolated showers.