Millions Under Flood Watch as Hurricane Francine Weakens, Brings Heavy Rains Inland

Hurricane Francine, now weakened but still dangerous, continues to wreak havoc as it moves inland across the southeastern U.S. After making landfall in Louisiana, the storm left millions under flood watches, stretching from the Florida Panhandle to Tennessee, including major cities like New Orleans, Memphis, and Atlanta. Torrential rains, with forecasts predicting up to 10 inches in some areas, have already caused widespread flooding, power outages, and road closures. Mississippi and Alabama are bracing for additional flash floods, with tornado warnings still in effect across parts of the region.

In Louisiana, where Francine first made landfall with 100 mph winds, significant damage has been reported in cities like New Orleans. Thousands are without power, and the storm has turned many streets into rivers, with homes and businesses suffering damage. Local officials are urging residents to remain indoors and avoid travel as recovery efforts begin. Extraordinary rescue efforts have also come to light, with stories of citizens like Miles Crawford, who saved a driver from a submerged truck in New Orleans. Meanwhile, officials in the hardest-hit areas are assessing the full extent of the destruction as they prepare for continued flooding.