Tropical Storm Francine is expected to strengthen into a Category 1 hurricane before reaching the Louisiana coast on Wednesday. The storm, currently located over the Gulf of Mexico, is forecasted to bring dangerous winds, storm surges of up to 10 feet, and potential tornadoes to the southern United States.
Coastal residents have been urged to evacuate low-lying areas and prepare for the arrival of the hurricane. Schools and colleges in Louisiana have closed as a precaution, and residents are stocking up on supplies in preparation for the storm. The state, still recovering from previous hurricanes, is taking the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of its residents.
US oil and gas producers in the Gulf of Mexico, including Exxon Mobil and Shell, have evacuated staff and halted drilling operations ahead of the storm. The arrival of Tropical Storm Francine marks the sixth named storm of 2024, in what was predicted to be an active hurricane season due to warmer than usual sea temperatures.
Meteorologists are also monitoring two other potential weather systems in the mid-Atlantic that have the potential to develop into larger storms. The high ocean heat content in the Gulf of Mexico is fueling the growth of Tropical Storm Francine, highlighting the impact of warmer seas on the intensity of hurricanes.
As the storm approaches, residents are encouraged to stay informed of updates from the National Hurricane Center and follow evacuation orders to ensure their safety during the storm.
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