Hurricane watch in effect from Fla. to La.
The Louisiana Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness released the following statement:
GOHSEP is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Karen which has formed in the Gulf of Mexico. It is currently located near the Yucatan Peninsula. A hurricane watch has been posted from Grand Isle, LA to Indian Pass, FL. A tropical storm watch is posted from Morgan City, LA to Grand Isle, LA. The National Hurricane Center has given the system a 70 percent chance of development within the next 48 hours.
Models and research are continually being studied to better determine its course. Karen could strengthen into a lower end Category 1 hurricane, but weaken back to tropical storm levels prior to landfall. This is mostly due to interactions with a strong cold front approaching from the north.
Forecasters are finalizing impacts involving winds, storm surge and rainfall. GOHSEP has meetings with other local and state agencies starting this morning.
GOHSEP Director Kevin Davis says, "I encourage everyone to watch for local and state advisories as we head into the weekend. This is a good time for you to check your emergency supplies and review your emergency plans."
You can receive emergency alerts on most smartphones and tablets by downloading the new ALERT FM App. It is free for basic service. You can also download the new Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide and find other important information at www.getagameplan.org.