Potential Tropical Cyclone 6 has now officially been given the status of "Tropical Storm" and has been named Francine

The early forecasts expected to approach the upper Texas and Louisiana coastlines on Wednesday as a category 1 hurricane.

Ahead of development, Texas Governor Greg Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate additional state emergency response resources ahead of potential impacts from tropical activity in the Gulf of Mexico. These resources are activated in addition to assets previously deployed in response to heavy rainfall and flash flooding across the state.

At this time forecasters are unsure exactly where the system will go. But, it could impact the area from the Texas coast eastward.

CenterPoint Energy says they are keeping their eye on the system and making proper preparations. The company released the following statement last week:

“In preparation for potential severe weather across the Texas coast and Greater Houston area, CenterPoint is in the process of securing work sites, preparing crews and equipment, and securing additional frontline resources from mutual assistance companies. The company is also reminding customers to develop an emergency plan and assemble a storm preparedness kit that includes essential items such as nonperishable food, water, flashlights, batteries, a first aid kit, any necessary medications, a battery-powered radio, and a portable charger for mobile devices.”

Jimmy Barrett