On Monday, the National Hurricane Center reported Tropical Storm Francine, currently spinning in the Gulf of Mexico, strengthened, with sustained 60 mph winds. Francine is moving northwest, toward the Mexico and Texas coastlines, with an expectation of heavy rains and wind across gulf shorelines beginning Tuesday.

As a result, Gulf Islands National Seashore will close the National Park Service-managed areas of the barrier islands in Mississippi beginning September 9 in preparation.

All recreation users should evacuate, and commercial services should cease services immediately from Horn, Petit Bois, West Petit Bois, Cat, and Ship Islands. Concessionaire services to Ship Island via Ship Island Excursions will cease until further notice.