(Editor's Note: This week's issue of The Advocate was sent to press early in order to keep staff members safe instead of delivering papers right in the middle of the storm. This story will be updated as needed on this website. There will be no charge to read these updates as the information is vital for public safety.)

By Paul Keane

Franklin Advocate

As of press time, residents were preparing for the arrival of Hurricane 
Francine, which should have weakened to a tropical storm by Thursday 
morning. Monday morning, the track of the storm shifted further to the 
east, placing Franklin County in direct impact from the eye of the 
storm.

As of Monday afternoon, the bulk of the storm was expected to hit 
between the Mississippi River and Interstate 55. Officials placed 
Franklin County under an elevated risk for heavy rains and flooding, 
with 4-7 inches of rain expected.

On Monday morning, the system was upgraded to a Tropical Storm, with it 
predicted to become a hurricane by Tuesday night and continuing on that 
track through Wednesday night. It was projected to make landfall around 
7 p.m. Wednesday in Central Louisiana, meaning that Franklin County 
would be on the side of the storm that would produce the most rain, 
winds and even possibly tornadoes.

Franklin County was at a marginal risk for isolated severe storms, 
damaging wind gusts and even a few possible tornadoes late Wednesday 
afternoon into Wednesday night.

By 7 a.m. Thursday, the system was expected to have weakened to a 
tropical storm, with the eye of the storm being roughly near Vicksburg.

Residents can expect heavy rains and potential flooding along with high 
winds and even possible tornadoes. The system was projected to bring 2-4 
inches or more of rain to the area, along with a moderate (at least 40 
percent) chance of flooding. Winds were projected to be 40 miles an hour 
of more as the system makes its way through the area.

All predictions were as of Monday morning and were subject to change 
based on various factors.

Residents were being urged to prepare for the storm and to take all 
necessary precautions, including stocking up water and supplies such as 
canned food, toiletries and other household items. Power outages are 
expected with this storm and everyone should remain alert to changing 
weather conditions.

Threats to the area include flooding, strong winds and tornadoes. People 
who live in a flood-prone area should identify the risks to their 
structures and be aware of where to evacuate if needed. Sheltering 
options should also include pets, and everyone should pack medications, 
important papers and documents and other vital items in waterproof 
packaging so they can be moved quickly.

Vehicles and generators should also be fully charged and gassed up. If 
you have to travel, be aware of flood waters and remember to "Turn 
around, don't drown" when approaching water over roadways.