Hurricane warning issued for New Orleans as Zeta hits Mexico
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A hurricane warning was issued for Louisiana on Monday, as Tropical Storm Zeta made landfall in Mexico on its way to the US Gulf Coast. /Getty Images

A hurricane warning was issued for Louisiana on Monday, as Tropical Storm Zeta made landfall in Mexico on its way to the US Gulf Coast. /Getty Images

A hurricane warning was issued for Louisiana on Monday, as Tropical Storm Zeta made landfall in Mexico on its way to the US Gulf Coast.

Hurricane Zeta hit Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula on Monday evening with winds of up to around 80mph, but weakened to a tropical storm with wind speeds of 70mph as it crossed over land overnight.

The storm is expected to reach the Gulf of Mexico on Tuesday, before then travelling to the US overnight and through Wednesday.

The storm is expected to increase in speeds as it makes its way to the US and is likely to be classified as a Category 1 hurricane with winds of up to 85 mph by Wednesday night.

Hurricane warnings have been issued for Louisiana and Mississippi, as Zeta is expected to make landfall in New Orleans on Wednesday evening, according to ABC 13.

Louisiana governor John Bel Edwards issued the warning on Monday and told residents: "We're doing everything we can to prepare for the storm."

He added: "We must roll up our sleeves, like we always do, and prepare for a potential impact to Louisiana."

Mr Edwards said that the National Guard has boats and trucks prepared for rescue missions, and has water and food ready to give to those caught up in the storm.

New Orleans officials have also announced a voluntary evacuation for residents outside of the city's levee system from 6pm on Tuesday.

(With input from agencies)