Hurricane Laura has prompted new warnings along the Texas and Louisiana Gulf Coasts.

A hurricane warning is now in effect from San Luis Pass, Texas, to Intracoastal City, Louisiana. This includes Galveston and parts of the east Houston metro area. Hurricane warnings are typically issued 36 hours before tropical storm-force winds are expected to begin, making storm preparations difficult.

A storm surge warning is also now in effect from San Luis Pass, Texas, to the mouth of the Mississippi River in southeast Louisiana, including areas inside the Port Arthur, Texas, hurricane flood protection system.

This means a life-threatening storm surge is expected in the next 36 hours. Residents in these areas should heed all evacuation orders and instructions from local emergency management and take necessary precautions to protect life and property.

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