10:15pm: Hurricane Francine Continues to Strengthen

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Hurricane Francine's warnings have become more extensive. The tropical storm warning has been extended into southwest Mississippi. At 8:25pm, the speed has increased to 77 mph and the pressure has dropped to 977 millibars. These values are still valid at 10:10pm.

The maximum sustained winds at landfall are forecast to be 100 to 105 mph with stronger gusts. 

Color codes (above):
  • Red = hurricane warning.
  • Pink = hurricane watch.
  • Blue = tropical storm warning (winds of 40 to 73 mph)
  • Yellow = tropical storm watch.
  • Amber = current area of 40 to 75 mph winds. 
  • Brown = hurricane force winds of 75 mph or stronger
In addition to a tropical storm warning, there is a hurricane watch for Baton Rouge and the Greater New Orleans area. The tropical storm warning has been extended to the western Florida Panhandle. 

Here are the forecast winds for the Baton Rouge and New Orleans areas. 
There will be widespread tree damage and power outages. On the Lake, there is an outside chance of wind gusts to 90 mph! There will be significant flooding. 

In addition a storm surge warning is in effect with a life-threatening surge forecast to occur. This is updated as of 10pm. Note storm surge has been dropped in central and southern Texas coastal regions and a 2' storm surge is now forecast into the Florida Panhandle's coast. 

There will be widespread power outages over southeast Louisiana, including the New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas. 

There is a significant risk of tornadoes in the brown area.

Preparations:
  • Assemble a "go kit" if you haven't already. This includes family heirlooms as well as essentials such as medicines, protein bars, water bottles and a few days of clothes in case you are ordered to evacuate. 
  • If you have a generator, fill it with fuel. 
  • Keep your car filled with fuel. 
  • Get some extra cash (ATMs won't work if you don't have power). 
  • If you have a chain saw, test it and fill it with fuel. There will be widespread power outages. 

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