BROOKHAVEN — Tropical Storm Francine is expected to reach hurricane strength today. As of 7 a.m., sustained wind speeds held at 65 mph and wind speeds must reach 74 mph to make the storm a hurricane.

At this time, the National Hurricane Center forecasts landfall to be at 1 p.m. Wednesday on the southern coast of Louisiana. The cone of the storm’s path has southwest Mississippi including Lincoln County in its sights and would be at tropical storm strength by 1 a.m. Thursday. Lincoln County and Southwest Mississippi are still in a window to start getting tropical storm force winds from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday. Minor details of timing and impacts could change as the storm nears.

Flash flooding is forecast to be a threat in Lincoln County Wednesday afternoon into Thursday. Four to six inches of rainfall is expected to fall in a short amount of time. Flash flooding is likely and some roadways may become closed. Minor river flooding is possible. Severe storms could be possible as well. The National Weather Service warns there is a marginal risk of isolated severe storms with damaging wind gusts and a few tornadoes are possible.

NWS Jackson additionally warns of a wind threat from Francine. The storm is expected to weaken to a tropical storm by the time it reaches southwest Mississippi. Sustained wind speeds could reach 30 to 45 mph. NWS Jackson Office warns there could be some downed trees, power lines, some roads could become blocked and power could be out for a couple of days.

Downed trees are especially a concern after last year’s drought and pine beetle outbreak killed trees across the state.

Check back for more updates as the storm develops. The National Hurricane Center expects to have another forecast update at 10 a.m. The Daily Leader will work to keep you informed before, during and after the storm.