Local threats begin today from Hurricane Francine

Your Mobile - Pensacola - Gulf Coast Area Weather Forecast for September 11, 2024

— Francine Impacts Begin —

We are waking up this morning to Hurricane Francine. This storm is expected to continue strengthening briefly today before weakening as it approaches the Louisiana coast. The latest track from the National Hurricane Center forecasts landfall this afternoon or evening near Louisiana. After landfall, the storm will move across Mississippi on Thursday and Thursday night.

While the most severe impacts from Francine, including dangerous storm surge and hurricane-force winds, will be limited to the Louisiana coast, we'll experience some effects locally. We're positioned on the eastern side of the storm as it passes, so we're anticipating some impacts in our area.

As Francine approaches, residents in the FOX10 viewing area should be prepared for several potential hazards:

1. Storm Surge/Coastal Flooding:

Expected surge: 2-4 feet from MS/AL Border to AL/FL Border, less than 3 feet from AL/FL Border to Destin, FL
Low-lying coastal areas, Mobile Bay Causeway, parts of Dauphin Island, and south Mobile County may experience flooding
Water levels will rise Wednesday and remain high into Thursday

2. Tornado Threat:

The area is under a Level 2 out of 5 risk for tornadoes
Main threat window: Wednesday through Thursday, including possible overnight warnings
Stay alert and have multiple ways to receive warnings

3. Flooding Rain:

Coastal areas: 4-7 inches of rain expected
Inland communities: 2-4 inches of rain expected
Flooding potential is somewhat limited due to recent dry conditions
Never drive on flooded roads

4. Strong Winds:

Tropical storm force winds (39-57 mph) possible, especially at the coast and western FOX10 viewing area
Potential for downed trees and power lines, particularly in Mississippi counties
Timeline: Breezy conditions start midday Wednesday, peaking Wednesday night into Thursday morning

5. Dangerous Beach Conditions:

Life-threatening rip currents expected from tonight through Friday night
Surf heights of 8-11 feet, with some breakers possibly reaching 12+ feet Wednesday night through Thursday night
Beach erosion is possible

Please stay with FOX10 News for the latest information on Francine. Follow members of the STORMtracker team for regular updates on social media. Also, check out more information on fox10tv.com. School closings, the latest reports from the coast, and more will be available there.

#Francine #Hurricane #GulfCoast

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