New Orleans is waking up to a cloudy Wednesday, with temperatures hovering around 75°F at the KNEW station as of 5:40 a.m. CDT. By this afternoon, the high is expected to top out near 86°F, with south winds around 5–15 mph and gusts that could reach up to 30 mph. There is a slight chance of a passing shower between about 9 a.m. and 10 a.m., then another slight chance of showers and isolated thunderstorms from roughly 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Most neighborhoods are likely to stay dry, but any outdoor plans this afternoon should factor in those blustery gusts and the possibility of a brief, drenching downpour.
Afternoon Storm Risk
The National Weather Service New Orleans has placed southeast Louisiana under a marginal risk for severe storms this afternoon. That means a few storms could flare up with damaging winds, small hail, and an isolated tornado, although the tornado threat remains low. For New Orleans, the main concern is strong, potentially damaging gusts and localized street flooding from brief but heavy downpours.
If storms manage to fire along the slow-moving front, they are expected to stay fairly progressive rather than park over one spot, so coverage should not be widespread. Areas along and north of the I-10/I-12 corridor have a better chance of seeing the stronger cells. Keep an ear on watches and warnings as the day heats up, and be ready to move indoors if you hear thunder getting close.
Thursday Through The Weekend
Rain chances ramp up on Thursday as the front stalls near the coast, with showers and thunderstorms becoming more likely and highs dropping into the low 80s. Forecast guidance keeps waves of showers and storms in the picture for Friday, Saturday and Mother's Day Sunday, with Friday currently showing the highest overall coverage and a greater risk of steadier rain.
Widespread, major flooding is not expected, but quick bursts of heavy rain could still trigger isolated street flooding and ponding in low-lying neighborhoods. If your weekend plans involve backyards, patios or parks, it is smart to keep an eye on updates before you head out.
Marine And Commute Notes
Southerly winds around 10–15 knots will keep coastal waters a bit choppy today, and local forecasters advise small craft to exercise caution on interior lakes and sounds. Any stronger storm that moves over the water could briefly jack up winds and waves.
On land, gusts near 30 mph may turn umbrellas into awkward kites and send lightweight outdoor furniture scooting across the yard, so secure anything that is likely to take off. Expect slower drives where rain ponds on the roads during downpours, and give yourself extra time for commutes through the usual trouble spots.
Boaters should keep a close watch on marine forecasts and stay alert for brief waterspout potential with the stronger offshore storms.
Quick Safety Notes
Have a backup indoor plan for any outdoor gatherings this afternoon, and skip sheltering under lone trees if storms roll through. If a severe thunderstorm warning is issued, head indoors, stay away from windows and consider unplugging sensitive electronics until the worst passes. Keep wireless alerts enabled on your phone for watches and warnings, and check in with local updates as conditions evolve through the day.
