HUNTSVILLE — Rainfall is expected to overspread the area starting Wednesday, as Tropical  Storm Francine approaches the northwestern Gulf Coast.

As Francine, which is expected to reach hurricane strength, lifts to the north, rainfall is expected to increase in coverage and intensity starting Thursday and continuing into Friday, the National Weather Service Huntsville office said.

“Localized flash flooding is possible during this period, mainly along and west of the I-65 corridor,” the forecasters said. “A low end threat for tornadoes is also possible Thursday and Friday, particularly during the late morning into the afternoon hours.

“Breezy to windy conditions are also expected starting Wednesday night and continuing into Friday, as wind speeds increase to 20-25 mph with gusts near 30-40 mph.”

Total rainfall amounts around 1-3 inches are expected with locally higher amounts up
to 3-4 inches, especially along and west of I-65.