Acadiana residents, this is not just another rainy day! A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued, and this storm is packing a punch. Expect damaging winds over 60 mph, large hail, intense downpours, and potential flash flooding. This storm is moving fast and could leave behind a trail of destruction, so now is the time to prepare. Stay inside, secure outdoor objects, and be ready for sudden power outages as this dangerous system sweeps through Lafayette, St. Landry, Acadia, St. Martin, and Vermilion parishes.
What’s Happening? Severe Storms Taking Aim at Acadiana
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for multiple parishes in Acadiana, warning that this storm is strong enough to cause significant damage. The system is rapidly developing and is expected to bring high-impact conditions, including:
- Winds Over 60 MPH – Strong enough to knock down trees, damage roofs, and cause widespread power outages.
- Large Hail (Up to 1 Inch in Diameter) – Hailstones of this size can shatter windows, dent cars, and destroy crops.
- Heavy Rainfall – Flash flooding is a real concern, especially in low-lying areas and streets with poor drainage.
The storm is moving quickly, which means conditions could go from calm to chaotic in minutes. Don’t wait until it’s too late—prepare now.
Who’s in the Danger Zone?
This storm is threatening several Acadiana parishes, including:
- Lafayette
- St. Landry
- Acadia
- St. Martin
- Vermilion
If you live in any of these areas, you should immediately take precautions and monitor the latest weather updates.
How Bad Can It Get? Understanding the Risks
Severe thunderstorms aren’t just about rain and lightning—this one has the potential to cause real destruction. Here’s why:
- Wind Gusts Over 60 MPH – That’s enough force to snap tree limbs, rip shingles off rooftops, and topple power lines. Even well-built structures can suffer damage.
- Hail the Size of Quarters – A storm like this can turn parking lots into danger zones, leaving thousands of dollars in vehicle damage. If you have a garage, use it now.
- Flash Flooding Risk – Streets can flood within minutes, making driving extremely dangerous. If you see water covering the road, turn around, don’t drown!
This is not a typical thunderstorm—the NWS is warning that this system could cause significant damage and disruptions.
What You Need to Do Right Now
To stay safe, take these immediate steps:
- Stay Indoors – Avoid windows, stay away from doors, and find a safe place inside your home. The safest spot is an interior room on the lowest level.
- Secure Loose Outdoor Objects – Bring in patio furniture, trash cans, and anything that could become airborne in strong winds.
- Prepare for Power Outages – Charge your phone, have flashlights ready, and make sure you have backup power sources if needed.
- Avoid Driving – If you’re on the road, pull over and wait it out. Driving through strong winds and heavy rain puts you at risk.
- Monitor Weather Alerts – Keep your phone charged and tuned in to local news and official weather updates. If conditions worsen, tornadoes could even develop.
Final Thoughts: Take This Storm Seriously!
Acadiana is no stranger to storms, but this one demands attention. With the threat of destructive winds, large hail, and flooding, it’s critical that everyone stays alert and takes action now. Severe weather can escalate in minutes, and being unprepared can put lives at risk.
