New Orleans rolled out of bed Thursday, May 28, 2026, into a wall of humidity and low clouds, with temperatures already near 81°F and showers sliding across the metro before most folks finished their first cup of coffee. Those showers are expected to stick around through much of the day, with thunderstorms packing quick-hitting downpours that could leave water pooling on low-lying streets.
According to the National Weather Service New Orleans, there is about a 70% chance of rain today, with a high near 83°F and most spots picking up between a quarter and a half of an inch of new rainfall. Forecasters warn that some stronger storms could briefly dump rain at rates of 1–3 inches per hour. With soils already saturated, those bursts could trigger localized flash flooding or turn usually passable streets into no-go zones.
How This Will Affect Your Commute
Any heavy cell that moves over your route could bring reduced visibility and pockets of standing water, so expect slower going, especially on bridges and at underpasses. Build in extra time for both the morning and afternoon drive, and do not try to power through flooded sections. The safest call is to turn around and find a different way around the water.
Weekend Outlook
The overall pattern should turn slightly drier heading into the weekend, with highs climbing into the upper 80s and some neighborhoods flirting with 90°F on Saturday and Sunday. Isolated afternoon storms will still be on the table, but the kind of widespread, all-day washouts that have dominated this week look less likely.
More Coverage
We have been tracking this soggy stretch, so check out our Memorial Day washout recap for a refresher on recent Flood Watch conditions and preparedness tips. If you have outdoor plans over the next few days, stay weather-aware and keep an eye on local alerts in case conditions change in a hurry.
Quick Tips
Carry an umbrella, keep your phone charged, and avoid parking on low-lying streets if your neighborhood is prone to flooding. If you encounter standing water while driving, turn around — don’t drown.
.jpg){kind=link}