Video: Some Rain, Some Wind

Tropical Storm Ike in Bossier Parish.

Ike coming to visit Northwest Louisiana, East Texas

From the looks of it, Hurricane Ike will be affecting the Ark-La-Tex in much the same way that Rita did. We can expect thunderstorms beginning late tonight or early tomorrow, with east winds 20 to 30 mph gusting to 45 mph.
On Saturday night the winds will switch and come from the south at 35 to 45 mph gusting to 65 mph.
This means that most likely some trees will fall and electricity will be out in some areas. Flooding could also occur in places.
Ike is still a category 2 storm, but has strengthed during the night and could possibly be a category 3 by landfall. Unlike some storms, Ike is expected to be increasing, rather than decreasing in strength at landfall. This is not a good sign.
I will update this throughout the day and evening hours.
Here are some links to information about the storm:

Tropical Storm Wind Warning

Ike’s Impact on the area

Hurricane Local Statement

Ike is on the way

It's too soon to tell for sure, depends on what Ike does over Cuba. If the hurricane stays over land, it could weaken dramatically. If it skirts to the north, it could gain strength in the Gulf. At present it has sustained winds of 135 mph. Present projections have it taking dead aim at Houma - the same path that Gustav followed.The forecasters believe that they can have a good idea of where landfall will be by Monday night.UPDATE: SundayThe NWS is now predicting a more westward course toward the Texas coast.