New Orleans woke up to clear skies and muggy, near-70°F air Tuesday morning, but the calm is not expected to last. The National Weather Service has a Flood Watch in effect through 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2026, with repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms expected through the day. Localized flash flooding and ponding on low-lying streets are possible where storms stall or redevelop.
Timing And Where The Heaviest Rain Will Fall
Forecasters say showers and thunderstorms are most likely from mid-morning into the afternoon, with storms expected to become likely between about 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. and then continue into the evening. A high near 83°F is in the forecast, with southeast winds staying light at 0 to 10 mph. Some storms could drop three-quarters to an inch of rain in a short period, which could quickly create ponding in low-lying neighborhoods, according to the National Weather Service New Orleans.
What To Expect Tonight And This Week
Showers and thunderstorms remain likely tonight, with a low around 76°F. Thursday is shaping up to be especially soggy, with widespread storms and another round of heavy rain in the mix. Rainfall totals through Thursday could stack up where storms repeatedly hit the same neighborhoods, which would raise the risk of urban flooding. Forecasters are keeping an eye on the pattern and the potential for additional Flood Watches if it does not break.
Commuters, Events And Safety
Ponding and localized flash flooding can turn familiar routes into no-go zones and slow commutes. The long-standing rule still applies when you see standing water on the road: turn around, do not drown. The city offers guidance and real-time tools for reporting and tracking street flooding. Residents can sign up for alerts and find preparedness tips at NOLA Ready. If you are traveling, move cars off low-lying streets if you can, and allow extra time for errands or appointments.
Updates will be posted if warnings are issued or the Flood Watch is extended. Check local alerts before heading out this afternoon, and if you have outdoor plans, line up an indoor backup and be ready for periodic heavy downpours through Tuesday night.
