Tropical Storm Francine Threatens Gulf Oil Production and Coastal Communities

Oil and gas producers in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico are evacuating staff and halting drilling activities as they prepare for Tropical Storm Francine. Expected to bring life-threatening surges and hurricane-force winds to the Texas and Louisiana coasts, the storm has sparked widespread emergency preparations and port restrictions.

Oil and gas producers in the U.S. Gulf of Mexico are scrambling to evacuate staff and halt drilling operations in anticipation of Tropical Storm Francine. The storm, expected to bring life-threatening storm surges and hurricane-force winds, poses significant risks to the Texas and Louisiana coasts.

Residents of Calcasieu Parish are being supplied with sandbags and other defensive materials, while major oil companies like Exxon Mobil and Shell are shutting down offshore rigs and evacuating workers. Chevron emphasized the focus on workforce safety, and Freeport LNG initiated storm preparations. The storm is on track to become the season's fourth hurricane by Wednesday.

The U.S. Coast Guard has restricted vessel navigation in several Texas ports, and Texas officials are urging residents to brace for severe weather. The Gulf's offshore waters account for a substantial portion of U.S. crude oil and natural gas production, raising concerns over energy supply disruptions.

(With inputs from agencies.)