A satellite image shows a tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico on Sunday, which developed into Tropical Storm Francine on Monday.

NOAA/via AP

Hide caption

Show/hide label

NOAA/via AP

Tropical Storm Francine has formed in the Gulf of Mexico, the National Hurricane Center said on Monday.

The storm is expected to develop into a hurricane before it reaches the U.S. Gulf Coast – which meteorologists say could happen as early as Wednesday.

The storm’s maximum sustained winds were 50 mph, the agency said in a warning Monday. “Gradual intensification is expected over the next day, with more significant intensification overnight Tuesday into Wednesday,” the NHC said.

Louisiana and parts of the Texas coast could face life-threatening storm surges, while hurricane-force winds are expected in southern Louisiana starting Wednesday. Francine will bring heavy rains and the threat of flash flooding to these areas, as well as other parts of the Texas coast and southern Mississippi.

Francine is forecast to make landfall in Louisiana on Wednesday evening. The storm is currently located about 180 miles east of the coast of the Mexican state of Tamaulipas. Meteorologists expect it to move northwest on Monday before turning northeast on Tuesday.

A hurricane warning is in effect for most of the Louisiana coast, from Cameron to Grand Isle.

The National Weather Service’s New Orleans office warned that southeast Louisiana could see 4 to 8 inches of rain, with even more possible. “The heaviest impacts are expected Wednesday into Thursday morning,” the office said.

The NWS in New Orleans warned residents: “Now is the time to check your supplies and rethink your plans. Don’t wait until tomorrow.” He recommended that Louisiana residents Charge electronic devices, collect water, clear debris from drains, check first aid kits and prescriptions, and have a plan for pets.

The unusually warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico favor the formation and intensity of the storm. The warmer waters are a sign of climate change.