Tropical storm-force winds have made their way to southern Louisiana as Tropical Storm Francine continues its path towards the coast. According to NOAA observations, the center of the storm is currently positioned about 80 miles south-southwest of Morgan City, Louisiana. However, its tropical storm-force winds extend up to 115 miles outward from that point, as reported by the National Hurricane Center.
Recent reports from an airport just west of Morgan City indicated a wind gust of 47 mph, while a nearby weather station recorded a gust of 51 mph. In Plaquemines Parish, east of Morgan City, winds are gusting between 35 to 45 mph. It's important to note that gusts ranging from 39 to 73 mph are considered to be tropical storm-force winds.
As Francine moves closer to landfall, the winds are expected to intensify. The National Weather Service in Lake Charles, Louisiana, has issued a warning that hurricane-force winds exceeding 74 mph are likely to reach the coast within the next few hours. Residents in the affected areas are advised to take necessary precautions and stay updated on the latest weather alerts and advisories.
