NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Meteorologists are currently monitoring the progression of Tropical Storm Francine in the lower Gulf of Mexico.

The development is expected to potentially make landfall Wednesday, Sept. 11 as a Category 1 hurricane.

Officials with Entergy Louisiana are also monitoring conditions and say that now is the time to prepare.

Entergy teams report they are prepared to work long hours after the storm passes to restore power to customers as quickly as possible.

They add that maintenance work is done year-round, such as trimming tree limbs from power lines, to improve the electrical system. Additionally, the company is preparing to adjust staffing and resources making more material, supplies and equipment available depending on the forecast.

Entergy's crews are closely monitoring Francine's track in the Gulf of Mexico. They are preparing for potential storm related power outages with crews on standby to respond as soon as the storm has passed.

Entergy is also partnering with other power companies to bring in more line crews should the need arise, according to Vice President of Customer Service with Entergy New Orleans Nyka Scott.

"If the power does go out, we are ready to respond as quickly and as safely as possible," Scott said. "We can't get up in bucket trucks until the winds die down to 30 mph, but as soon as they do, we'll be out in the field restoring power."

Customers are reminded to not let their guard down and to finalize their plans in preparation of possible power outages including the assembly of an emergency kit with the following items:

• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Battery-powered radio
• Canned food
• Fresh water for days
• First-aid kit

“We are urging our customers to take the potential of severe weather seriously and stay prepared,” said Vice President of Reliability for Entergy in Louisiana Steven Benyard. “Rest assured, our crews and contractors will be ready to respond if needed, working tirelessly to restore power and provide support in the aftermath of any storm.” 

Entergy crews say once the storm passes and it is safe to do so, damage assessments will begin to determine the necessary actions and repairs. From there restoration times will be estimated.

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