Hurricane Francine Brings Flood Risk and Dangerous Weather to Louisiana

Photo byNational Weather Service

Flood Watch and Hurricane Warnings in Effect as Heavy Rain and Storm Surge Threaten Gulf Coast

LAKE CHARLES — Issued by the National Weather Service at 4:15 AM on September 11, 2024.

Flood Watch for Central and Southern Louisiana Through Thursday Morning

LAKE CHARLES — A Flood Watch remains in effect for much of central, south-central, and southwest Louisiana through Thursday morning as Hurricane Francine approaches the Gulf Coast. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns of potential flooding due to excessive rainfall, with forecasted amounts of 3 to 6 inches and localized totals up to 8 inches, particularly across the Lower Acadiana region.

Residents in flood-prone areas, including Rapides, Avoyelles, Allen, Evangeline, St. Landry, Lafayette, and Cameron parishes, should remain alert and prepared to take action if flood conditions develop. Excessive runoff may result in rivers, creeks, and streams overflowing, causing hazardous conditions in low-lying areas.

Hurricane Warnings and Storm Surge Threats for Louisiana's Coastline

Hurricane Francine is moving northeast towards the Louisiana coast, maintaining its hurricane strength with sustained winds of 90 mph. A Hurricane Warning is in effect for Lower Iberia, Lower St. Mary, Lower Vermilion, and Upper St. Mary, while Storm Surge Warnings are in place for coastal areas including East Cameron.

Potential impacts from the hurricane include:

• Storm Surge: Life-threatening surge is expected, with widespread deep inundation, structural damage, and severe coastal erosion. Flood control systems may be stressed, and many near-shore escape routes could be washed out or severely flooded.
• Wind: Devastating winds may cause significant structural damage, widespread power outages, and numerous road closures due to fallen trees and debris.
• Rainfall Flooding: Major flooding could prompt evacuations and rescues, with rivers and streams rapidly overflowing. Flood waters may enter structures, rendering some locations uninhabitable.

Residents are advised to follow local evacuation orders and remain vigilant for updates on the storm’s path and intensity.

Flood Warnings Extended for Several Louisiana Rivers

Flood Warnings have been extended for several rivers in Louisiana, including the Vermilion River at Lafayette and Bayou Des Cannes near Eunice, where minor flooding is forecasted. The river at Bayou Des Cannes is expected to rise above flood stage by Thursday afternoon, cresting at 17.5 feet early Friday morning before receding below flood stage by Friday evening.

Precautionary Measures and Preparedness Actions

Residents in the affected areas should prepare for potential evacuations, keep cell phones charged, and have emergency supplies ready. It is crucial to stay informed through reliable sources, including the National Weather Service, and follow local news for the latest updates on Hurricane Francine.

Hazardous Weather Changes Fast - Stay Updated

Weather Watches, Warnings, and Advisories are frequently updated by NWS. Please look for updates to this report from the National Weather Service, or your local news channels and NOAA All Hazards radio. Please follow Thumbwind Publications for more local weather and news updates. Your helpful comments are welcome.