At least 20 people were reported dead in Central America on Thursday after Tropical Storm Nate tore through the region, with the storm now expected to strengthen before hitting Louisiana and parts of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center said Nate is expected to weaken slightly before regaining strength and being “near hurricane intensity” by the time it hits southern Mexico on Friday. The storm is expected to affect Louisiana and Florida over the weekend, with Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards warning residents to brace for a “direct hit.” Edwards declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm’s arrival, and voluntary evacuations have begun in some areas around New Orleans.
