This is an excerpt from the the New Orleans, LA NWS afternoon discussion. So obviously somebody there thinks Frances will make it into the GOM and possibly affect the area.

If I lived in New Orleans or anywhere along the central and eastern GOM I keep close tabs on Frances. I think Houston, TX area is safe, at least I hope.
THE TRACK OF
THE VERY STRONG HURRICANE FRANCES WILL BE THE MAIN CONCERN WHICH MAY
IMPACT THE FORECAST AFTER DAY 7...NEXT SATURDAY. REFER TO THE LATEST
ADVISORIES FROM THE NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER FOR THE LATEST
INFORMATION ON BOTH HURRICANE FRANCES AND TROPICAL STORM GASTON.