5 ways to prep for Tropical Storm Francine right now

The big picture: Louisiana is expected to see storm impacts primarily on Wednesday and Thursday as Francine moves onto the Gulf Coast.

• Lafayette, Houma and other coastal communities are expected to bear the brunt, but the New Orleans metro knows well that it doesn't take a doozy to knock out power or flood streets.
• See the storm's latest track.

Here are five ways you can prepare right now:

1. Pick up any loose debris or outdoor furniture in your yard or public areas along your street that could become airborne in strong winds.
2. Clear trash and debris from storm drains and catch basins along your block.
3. Put key family documents in a waterproof container.
4. Walk around your home and take a video in case it's useful later for an insurance claim.
5. Top off your gas tank and check your stock of water, nonperishable foods, pet food, medicine, batteries and flashlights.

Go deeper:

• Our full hurricane prep checklist
• 9 things we added to our hurricane prep after Beryl and Ida
• New Orleans plans "emergency resource centers" in case of mass power outage