Francine is intensifying and may soon strengthen into a hurricane

Tropical Storm Francine, which developed at 10 a.m. on Monday, is forecasted by the National Hurricane Center to intensify into a Category 1 hurricane by Tuesday. The storm is expected to reach our region by Wednesday.

Southeast Louisiana, including the New Orleans metro area, lies within the projected path. Residents should brace for severe weather throughout Wednesday. A storm surge watch is currently in place, along with a hurricane watch for some areas and a tropical storm watch for others.