FRANKLIN, La. ( KLFY ) — Due to the effects of Tropical Storm Francine , St. Mary Parish President Sam Jones has declared a voluntary evacuation for the southern portion of the parish.

The order covers all areas south of La. 83, south of Glencoe, which includes the Port of West St. Mary, all of Cypremort Point and Louisa, as well as La. 317 south of the levee near Lukes Landing Road. The declaration becomes effective at 5 p.m. Tuesday.

The original order was later amended to include La. 317 south of Intracoastal to Burns Point.

Approximate landfall will be close to St. Mary Parish Wednesday evening, according to KLFY Meteorologist Chris Cozart .

The National Hurricane Center Forecast Cone shows Francine moving northward through the Gulf of Mexico while gaining more strength. The latest forecast shows a Category 1 Hurricane with wind speeds near 90 mph.

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