Tropical storm Francine intensifies and threatens the U.S. coast.

A new threat looms over the coast of the United States as Tropical Storm Francine has begun to organize in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico, with expectations that it will become a hurricane before making landfall. This weather phenomenon, which formed on Monday, September 9, has triggered alerts and precautions in several states, especially in Louisiana and Texas, where significant impacts are anticipated in the coming hours. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has issued a notice through its account on "X," emphasizing that Tropical Cyclone Six, as it has been initially named, is on track to become a hurricane. This change could occur before the system reaches the coast, raising serious concerns about the safety of coastal communities. Projections indicate that starting Tuesday, the chances of deadly storm surge and destructive winds will significantly increase along the coasts of Louisiana and North Texas. Therefore, residents in these areas have been urged to activate their emergency plans and be prepared for the imminent impact of the storm. Authorities stress that preparation is crucial to mitigate the risks of flooding and other damage that could result from Francine. The National Hurricane Center has reported that Francine currently has maximum sustained winds of 85 km/h (50 mph). At this time, it is located about 395 kilometers southeast of the mouth of the Rio Grande, meaning its trajectory is very close to the territorial boundaries of the United States. A hurricane watch has been established for the coast of Louisiana, suggesting that the first effects of the cyclone could be felt within the next 48 hours. The coastal areas of Texas and Louisiana are also under tropical storm watch, which could result in storm surges that would flood coastal areas. This storm is expected to produce heavy rainfall, with accumulations reaching up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) in parts of northeastern Mexico and southern Texas. Additionally, sea levels are anticipated to rise up to 3 meters (10 feet) above normal in certain locations, exacerbating the flood risk. Globally, it is important to note that this phenomenon occurs after weeks of calm in the Atlantic basin, a period during which cyclonic activity had been minimal. The formation of Francine marks a return to a more active pattern in this hurricane season, which has already seen the emergence of several systems, including Hurricane Ernesto, which caused severe damage in Puerto Rico and the Bermuda Islands last month. This Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be one of the most intense in recent decades, with projections suggesting the possibility of up to 25 storms and 13 hurricanes. Such activity not only poses a challenge for coastal communities but also underscores the need for authorities and citizens to be better prepared to face these extreme weather phenomena. In this context, INSIVUMEH has reported that these cyclonic systems will not affect Guatemala, providing relief to residents in the region. However, attention remains focused on the Gulf of Mexico, where Francine's trajectory could have a devastating impact. It is imperative that citizens in the affected areas take warnings seriously and prepare adequately, not only by securing their homes and belongings but also by maintaining constant communication with local authorities. With the arrival of Hurricane Francine, collective preparation and response efforts will be crucial to safeguarding lives and property along the Gulf Coast. As the hours progress and the storm intensifies, the community must remain alert and united, remembering that nature, while unpredictable, can be mitigated with knowledge and proper preparation.