New Orleans is forecast to be partly sunny, with a chance of showers and thunderstorms this afternoon. Highs should be in the upper 70s, with east winds of 10 to 15 mph. The National Weather Service’s current Western Orleans forecast calls for a chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms.
Afternoon Storms Could Complicate Halloween Plans
A chance of showers and thunderstorms is forecast this afternoon, with a 50% chance of rain. Outdoor plans may need a flexible backup. The National Weather Service’s updated forecast for Western Orleans gives a 50% chance, rather than 60%, and places the chance in the afternoon.
Showers are likely Saturday night, with a chance of thunderstorms and a 60% chance of rain. The low should be in the upper 60s. The National Weather Service’s current Western Orleans forecast gives those overnight conditions; its regional outlook says most moderate to heavy rain should move out Sunday, though showers may linger.
The rain outlook varies across the region: the National Weather Service expects scattered to widespread showers and a few thunderstorms from Saturday into Sunday, with the heaviest rain favored Saturday evening and overnight. Its regional rainfall estimate is 0.25 to 1 inch, with the greatest amounts currently favored along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, rather than uniformly across the New Orleans metro. The local forecast office’s Halloween outlook says outdoor plans should account for wet conditions.
How New Orleans’ Drainage System Handles Rain
According to the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans, the city’s drainage system includes more than 68,000 catch basins, 1,500 miles of lateral underground drainage pipes, 200 miles of open and underground canals, and 120 pumps in 24 drainage pump stations. The board says engineers estimated the system can move about half an inch of water per hour after rain fills the underground canal and pipe systems.
New Orleans is built below sea level, and the city has pumping stations. Catch basins are a key entry point: when debris blocks them, water cannot flow into the pipes and canals, and streets can flood locally during heavy rain. The city says residents can report clogged catch basins through 311, though it has more basins than it can realistically maintain.
Sunday Stays Cloudy Before A More Active Week
Sunday is expected to have a high near 79°F, with a 60% chance of showers. The National Weather Service’s current Western Orleans forecast puts the high near 79°F and the rain chance at 60%.
Rain and thunderstorms are possible Tuesday, with strong to severe storms possible Tuesday night through early Wednesday as a front moves through. Showers and thunderstorms remain possible Wednesday, followed by a drier trend later in the week. The National Weather Service says the stronger system arrives Tuesday and Wednesday; its Western Orleans forecast also calls for a chance of showers and thunderstorms Tuesday and Wednesday.
Coastal Flooding Remains A Weekend Concern
Persistent easterly winds may contribute to minor coastal flooding during high tide along parts of the Louisiana and Mississippi coast. A coastal flood advisory is in effect until 9 a.m. Saturday. The National Weather Service describes the threat as minor coastal inundation.
