Summary
Francine's maximum sustained winds decreased to 35 mph as the center of the storm slid over southern Mississippi. The danger of "life-threatening" coastal storm surge remained a major concern from the National Hurricane Center.
In New Orleans, classes were canceled for almost 50,000 public school students. Many also were closed Wednesday, and some won't reopen until next week.
Francine is forecast to bring up to 6 inches across parts of Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia and Florida. Up to 10 inches were possible in central and northern Alabama and over the Florida Panhandle.
Jefferson Parish officials urge residents to limit water usage because of the "aging sewer system" The parish has over 500 lift stations with more than 1,800 pumps working to keep the system down.
