Laura is forecast to strengthen while crossing the Gulf of Mexico and could reach the coast of Texas or Louisiana late Wednesday or early Thursday as a major hurricane (sustained winds greater than 110 mph). Along portions of the Gulf Coast, a 7- to 11-foot storm surge can be expected when Laura moves inland.
In addition, high winds could cause extensive crop and infrastructural damage, while torrential rainfall (4 to 8 inches or more) could result in extensive flooding.