Hurricane Francine, the fourth of the current hurricane season, is approaching the Louisiana coast with sustained winds of 90 mph (150 km/h). The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has indicated that Francine is a Category 1 hurricane and is on the brink of making landfall. This powerful hurricane has prompted storm surge warnings for much of the southern United States.
The eye of the hurricane is located 195 miles (315 kilometers) from Morgan City, Louisiana, and is moving northeast at 12 mph (19 km/h), dangerously approaching vulnerable areas like New Orleans. The city, which still remembers the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina, is under alert along with Lake Maurepas and Lake Pontchartrain.
Significant flooding and power outages are expected from this cyclone, putting local authorities on high alert. Cubans in the United States, particularly in Florida, are paying close attention to this news, which brings back memories of previous hurricanes that have impacted the region. Many Cubans in Miami and nearby areas also have family and friends in Louisiana, increasing their concern.
Meteorologists predict that Francine will make landfall in Louisiana this afternoon or evening, then move toward Mississippi, bringing heavy rains and potential structural damage. Southern Alabama and parts of Florida are also under alert for possible coastal flooding.
In addition to Francine, the National Hurricane Center is monitoring three other systems in the Atlantic that could develop in the coming days. One of the most concerning is system AL93, located southwest of the Cape Verde Islands, which has a 90% chance of becoming a tropical depression by the end of the week as it moves towards the central Atlantic. Two other systems, AL92 and AL94, are in nearby areas but have a lower probability of development.
These phenomena reflect the high activity in the Atlantic basin during this season, which is shaping up to be one of the most active in years, with a forecast of up to 25 storms and 13 hurricanes. Residents of the southern United States, including many Cuban-Americans, remain attentive to updates on Francine's trajectory and evolution.
Hurricane Francine: Key Questions Answered
As Hurricane Francine approaches the Louisiana coast, many people have questions about the storm's impact and trajectory. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers.
When is Hurricane Francine expected to make landfall?
Meteorologists predict that Francine will make landfall in Louisiana this afternoon or evening.
What areas are most at risk from Hurricane Francine?
Areas most at risk include New Orleans, Lake Maurepas, and Lake Pontchartrain, along with southern Alabama and parts of Florida.
What other weather systems is the National Hurricane Center monitoring?
The NHC is also monitoring three other systems in the Atlantic, including system AL93, which has a 90% chance of developing into a tropical depression.