good evening I'm Jenny with 71 newsusa TV our top story tonight tropical storm Francine is making headlines as it moves closer to the Mississippi area and preparations are in full swing across Memphis and the Midsouth tropical storm Francine currently churning in the Gulf of Mexico is expected to bring significant weather changes to the region according to the latest forecasts the storm is on the path that could impact parts of Mississippi and the surrounding areas including Memphis meteorologists are predicting that the storm will intensify as it approaches potentially reaching hurricane strength before making landfall residents can expect heavy rain storm winds and a risk of severe flooding emergency officials are advising the public to be on high alert and to prepare for the storm's arrival local authorities have already begun implementing precautionary measures sandbags are being distributed in flood prone areas and City services are preparing for potential power outages and road closures the national weather service has issued alerts for several counties urging residents to stay informed and to follow safety protocols in Memphis schools and businesses are preparing for possible disruptions the city is coordinating with emergency services to ensure a rapid response to any incidents that may occur residents are encouraged to have an emergency kit ready which should include Essentials such as water non- perishable food medications and flashlights the storm's path remains fluid and it's crucial for everyone to stay updated with the latest information from local authorities and weather reports we continue to monitor tropical storm Francine closely and provide timely updates as the situation develops for now residents are advised to secure outdoor items that could become dangerous in high winds and to review their emergency plans ensuring that you are prepared can make a significant difference in how you experience the storm stay with 71 newsusa TV for ongoing coverage of tropical storm Francine and its potential impact on our region we'll bring you the latest updates and important information as it becomes available [Music] roadways uh covered in water and you know those are the incidents where people really uh have had the most difficulty airport advises to frequently check with your airline especially if you're traveling to an area affected by Francine as inclement weather can impact Airline schedules they're giving us you know two or three days notice to understand that there's going to be some there's going to be go ahead start making those preparations now for news leer Memphis news channel 3 plan ahead and the City of Memphis is drained maintenance crew hopes to clear as