Tropical depression Francine, previously a category two hurricane, made landfall in Louisiana, causing widespread damage and chaos. The storm trapped people in floodwaters, tore roofs off buildings, and left many areas without power.
As the storm moved north into Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia, its impact continued to be felt across the region. In New Orleans, a 350-mile levee and flood wall system played a crucial role in protecting the city and surrounding parishes. These solid steel barriers were closed in preparation for the storm, a stark reminder of the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina.
Residents and businesses in New Orleans braced for the storm, with many closing their doors to ensure the safety of employees and visitors. The city's drainage system, capable of handling an inch of rain per hour, was overwhelmed as Francine dumped a total of 10 inches of rain, leading to significant flooding in some areas.
Despite the challenges, the storm has now passed over New Orleans, allowing for cleanup efforts to begin. However, the threat of tornadoes looms as the remnants of Francine continue to move eastward towards Florida.
The Gulf Coast states remain on high alert as they assess the damage caused by Francine and prepare for potential further impacts. The resilience of the communities affected by the storm is evident as they work together to recover and rebuild in the aftermath of this natural disaster.
