The National Weather Service (NWS) in New Orleans has issued a flood watch in effect through Friday night due to a weak tropical disturbance moving westward over the Gulf. The latest NWS update forecasts multiple rounds of heavy rain, which could lead to flooding through at least Friday night. With humidity steady at 91 percent, the heat index currently makes it feel close to 90 degrees.
Residents in and south of the Interstate 10 corridor should prepare for storm total rainfall between 3 to 6 inches, with some areas potentially receiving isolated amounts up to 10 inches. The flood watch covers a wide region, including parts of southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi, as well as metropolitan New Orleans. With the soil already saturated, the additional 2 to 4 inches of rain expected—falling at rates exceeding 2 to 4 inches per hour during some storms—could create hazardous conditions for low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Apart from the flood watch, forecasts for the upcoming days range from thunderstorms to showers with high temperatures hovering in the mid-80s to low 90s, keeping air conditioners working overtime. For those planning to venture out, the NWS has stressed caution, particularly at night when "flooded roadways are impossible to see."
With the city’s established flood preparations in place, officials advise residents to remain vigilant and be ready to take appropriate action. The NWS warns that excessive runoff may cause significant flooding, not just minor puddles. Urban areas and locations with poor drainage are particularly at risk, as heavy rainfall could disrupt daily activities.
