The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) is encouraging Mississippians to prepare now for flash flooding ahead of Tropical Storm Francine tracking towards the state.

At home, Warren County Emergency Management Agency Director John Elfer said residents should hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.

“I think it could be a rain event for us, but I think that people just need to be prepared and pay attention to changing forecasts,” Elfer said Monday morning. “In the event this thing shifts, you need supplies to last you 72 hours.”

As of Monday morning, MEMA officials said the system is expected to bring heavy rain and flash flooding along the Gulf Coast and areas of southern Mississippi from Wednesday into Friday. Mississippians should prepare now for severe weather, potential power outages, and possible evacuations. It’s also important to have a go-kit ready, MEMA said.

A disaster supply kit should contain:

• At least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and water (more is encouraged);

• Flashlight with extra batteries;

• Medication;

• Copies of important documents (birth certificate, passport, marriage license, etc.);

• Extra cash;

• First aid kit.

Elfer said it is important for residents maintain ways to receive updates in the event of a loss of power and ensure they have common-sense items like a manual can-opener.

“We could have some pretty strong winds and a bunch of rain, but it’s not like we haven’t been through it before,” he said. “People just need to use common sense and pay attention to the weather. Have more than one way to get an alert. You can’t go wrong with a weather radio. Make sure you have a way to charge your smart phone, or whatever device you have. Make sure you can function without electricity.”

Elfer said more updates on Francine will come in the next 48 hours, but advised residents to visit the MEMA website at https://www.msema.org/ for additional tips and up-to-date information on Francine.