With the potential for heavy rainfall and a dangerous storm surge looming large, preparations across the region are in full swing. Local crews have been hard at work clearing storm drains and distributing sandbags, bracing for what could be a fierce hit from Mother Nature.

Residents have been urged to take matters into their own hands and start prepping. This comes as the storm rapidly approached hurricane strength less than a day after forming in the Gulf of Mexico.

Mayor-President of Baton Rouge, Sharon Weston Broome told locals to take safety measures during a Monday news conference. “It’s crucial that all of us take this storm very seriously,” Broome emphasized.

Broome advised residents to put together disaster supply kits with enough food and essential supplies to last at least 72 hours. She also stressed that before Francine hits, everyone in the area should have a solid plan and be ready to hunker down in a sturdy structure.

“When this storm starts affecting our area on Wednesday, I want everyone in East Baton Rouge Parish to have a plan to be inside a sturdy structure for the duration of the storm,” Broome added.