Isidore heads for Louisiana

After forcing thousands from their homes in Mexico, Tropical Storm Isidore moves North towards Louisiana.

Although it had lost some of its punch, Isidore caused Louisiana Governor Mike Foster to call for a State of Emergency, just in case. Facing swirling winds, high tides, and pelting rain, Louisiana residents prepared for the worst.

Some have boarded up windows and sandbagged in anticipation of high winds and flooding. Schools are closed but emergency shelters are open, as the state could face rainfall totals of 20 inches.

Coastal residents on the Gulf live with inherent risks, but the city of New Orleans is especially vulnerable to hurricanes. New Orleans' geography makes its residents take storm warnings seriously. The city is already below sea level and surrounded by water on three sides. It could be devastating if a major hurricane made landfall there. New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin indicated that, "Certain very low-lying areas are evacuating. I really think we're in good shape."

Meteorologists are watching Isidore carefully, as tropical storms have the potential to change course and intensify quickly.

In New Orleans' famous French Quarter, signs said what residents and tourists were thinking: "Go away, Isidore!"