NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Tropical Storm Francine’s intensity leveled off this afternoon after a period of strengthening, according to the latest update from the National Hurricane Center.
As of this afternoon, satellite imagery indicated the storm had developed a closed low-level eyewall and a symmetric cloud pattern. However, an intrusion of dry air has caused some weakening of the inner core.
Air Force and NOAA Hurricane Hunter aircraft have been investigating Francine and reported that maximum sustained winds remain at 65 mph, but the storm’s pressure dropped to 992 mb, signaling the possibility of renewed strengthening.
Tropical storm-force winds are likely in the outer rainbands, which are approaching the northeastern coast of Mexico and southern Texas.
Francine has been moving slowly north-northwest at about 5 mph. A mid-level ridge over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico is expected to keep the storm on a slow northwestward to northward track, just off the coast of northeastern Mexico, through Tuesday morning.
By late Tuesday, a trough over Texas is forecast to approach, causing Francine to turn northeast and increase speed, potentially reaching the Louisiana coast by Wednesday afternoon or evening. While models agree on this general scenario, there is some uncertainty about when the storm will make landfall.
Environmental conditions remain favorable for further strengthening over the next 24 hours, with warm ocean waters and low wind shear. However, some dry air in the area has slightly lowered the chance for rapid intensification.
Just before landfall, Francine is expected to encounter increasing wind shear, likely halting its intensification. Rapid weakening is expected once the storm moves inland.
There is a danger of life-threatening storm surge along portions of the Upper Texas and Louisiana coastlines, where a Storm Surge Warning is in effect. Residents in these areas should follow evacuation orders and other guidance from local officials.
Damaging and life-threatening hurricane-force winds are expected in parts of southern Louisiana on Wednesday, where a Hurricane Warning is in effect. Preparations to protect life and property should be completed by Tuesday night, as tropical storm conditions are expected to begin early Wednesday.
Francine is expected to bring heavy rainfall and the risk of significant flash flooding along the coast of northeast Mexico, the far lower and upper Texas coasts, much of Louisiana, and Mississippi through Thursday morning. Flash flooding and urban flooding risks extend into portions of the Mid-South from Wednesday night through Friday morning.
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(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
