Hurricane Francine Slams Southern Louisiana with 100-MPH Winds and Flooding

Hurricane Francine unleashed powerful winds and devastating storm surges across southern Louisiana on Wednesday. The Category 2 storm made landfall in Terrebonne Parish with 100-mph winds, cutting power to more than 400,000 homes by Thursday morning.

Communities such as Dulac, Houma, and Chauvin were hit hard, experiencing severe flooding and structural damage from the storm’s powerful winds and relentless storm surge. In Dulac, a 90-mph wind gust was recorded, while in Chauvin, the storm surge submerged the docks at CoCo Marina.

Storm chasers braved the hurricane’s fury to document its destruction. A large tree blocked roads in Houma, while intense winds ripped apart buildings. FOX Weather reporters and storm chasers provided real-time coverage, with one narrowly avoiding injury from flying debris in Houma.

Despite the devastation, hurricane parties continued in New Orleans until torrential rains set in. The city recorded its second-wettest September day with over 7 inches of rain, leading to flash flooding across the area.