New Orleans starts Thursday clear and muggy, with temperatures around 81 degrees and a high near 89. The sunny-looking morning is expected to give way to scattered showers and thunderstorms as the afternoon heats up.
Rain chances rise late Thursday morning, with the best odds from about 1 p.m. through 5 p.m. The National Weather Service office in New Orleans says a few storms could bring gusty winds, frequent lightning and brief heavy downpours, although no watches or warnings are currently in effect.
Mostly Clear Tonight Before Friday Storms
Thursday night should turn mostly clear after a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8 p.m. The low is expected to settle near 77 degrees, with southeast winds around 5 to 10 mph.
Friday will look similar at first, with a high near 88 and mostly sunny breaks before storms become more likely during the afternoon. Rain chances rise to about 60%, according to the National Weather Service.
Wet Weekend Could Bring Localized Flooding
The forecast takes a much wetter turn Saturday and Sunday, when showers and thunderstorms are expected across the New Orleans area. Rain chances are near 100% both days in the highest-likelihood areas, including the New Orleans metro, with highs in the mid-80s.
Forecasters say the metro area could see 1 to 3 inches of rain over the weekend, with isolated totals up to 5 inches possible along and south of a stalled front. Localized flash flooding is the main concern, while the severe-weather threat is expected to remain low.
Rain Chances Ease Early Next Week
Monday and Tuesday should be somewhat less unsettled, with precipitation limited to coastal areas or potentially entirely offshore. Highs should stay near 82 degrees.
By Wednesday, temperatures may ease to around 80 degrees, and rain could return. Residents planning outdoor activities this weekend should keep an eye on updated forecasts, especially if heavier rain begins to collect in low-lying areas.
