BROOKHAVEN — Tropical Storm Francine is forecast to make landfall as a hurricane somewhere on the coast between Texas and Louisiana Wednesday. The storm could impact Lincoln County and Southwest Mississippi with flash flooding and severe storms Wednesday into Thursday

Entergy Mississippi said it is fully prepared for the storms. Fisher Warren, Customer Service Manager for Lincoln County, said the company’s top priority is the safety of customers and communities. 

The National Forests in Mississippi expressed similar concerns about safety in an announcement that they are closing several recreational areas across the state in anticipation of the storm as well. In the Homochitto National Forest, Clear Springs Recreation Area will be closed on Tuesday at 4 p.m.

In anticipation of potential damage, the company is bringing in additional contractors and resources to assist in power restoration efforts. 

“We are committed to restoring power as safely and efficiently as possible should outages occur,” Warren said. “We urge everyone to stay clear of any downed power lines as they may still be energized and pose a significant hazard. Please report any outages or electrical hazards immediately by calling 1-800-9OUTAGE (1-800-968-8243).” 

Teams of linemen will be ready and on standby to address any issues which arise. Warren said Entergy appreciates people’s patience and cooperation as they navigate through the impacts of Hurricane Francine. 

“Stay safe and take all necessary precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones,” Warren said. 

According to the National Hurricane Center, Francine has sustained wind speeds of 65 mph, an increase from earlier Monday afternoon. The storm will become a Hurricane when sustained wind speeds reach 74 mph. 

“Significant strengthening is forecast over the next couple of days and Tropical Storm Francine is forecast to become a hurricane tonight or Tuesday morning,” the National Hurricane Center states.

The National Weather Service in Jackson issued a Tropical Storm Watch for Wilkinson and Amite Counties Monday afternoon. The watch means Tropical Storm force winds are expected for the forecast area in the next 48 hours. 

At this time, no watches or warnings have been issued for Lincoln County. There is a threat of flash flooding and potential for isolated severe storms. Anywhere between 4 to six inches of rainfall is expected Wednesday night into Thursday night in a short period of time which could cause flooding. Tornados are also possible. 

The Daily Leader will continue to work to provide updates on the forecasted storm.