The storm was downgraded from a hurricane to a tropical storm after moving over Haiti but forecasters expect it to regain strength and move into the Gulf of Mexico in a few days.

Long-range forecasts say the storm could be a major hurricane threatening the central Gulf Coast by Monday, but they caution it's too early to identify a specific path.

New Orleans officials are making plans in case the city has to be evacuated. People who might need help evacuating are being advised to call the city's 311 information number.

Mississippi Emergency Management Director Mike Womack is advising south Mississippi residents to have a plan in place.