Tropical Storm Barry had top sustained winds of 65 mph on Friday afternoon and could become a hurricane early Saturday, July 13 before making landfall along the coast of Louisiana . The storm is expected to bring dangerous storm surge, high winds and heavy rainfall to portions of the Gulf Coast and lower Mississippi River Valley.

The slow movement of Barry will result in long duration heavy rainfall along the central Gulf Coast and well inland through the weekend and into early next week. Flooding will become increasingly likely, some of which may be significant.

“I urge all residents in areas affected by Tropical Storm Barry to take steps now to protect you and your family,” said Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross. “Flash floods can happen with no warning. Listen to local authorities, monitor local weather alerts and avoid flooded areas.”

If you live in these affected areas, be sure to follow directions from your local officials. If told to evacuate, do so immediately!

Follow your local @NWS office for weather alerts: http://weather.gov/socialmedia