New Orleans bracing for storm Barry

NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana - Tropical Storm Barry gathered strength on Friday as it chugged toward waterlogged New Orleans, which girded for heavy rains, storm surge and flooding that pose a threat reminiscent of 2005's deadly Hurricane Katrina.

The weather system, which has already caused major flooding in the low-lying city, is expected to reach hurricane strength on Friday or early on Saturday when it nears Louisiana's coast, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The NHC noted that sustained winds had increased to 80 km/h, with higher gusts, and the storm will bring "life-threatening flooding" to coastal and river areas.