New Orleans is in for a rough weekend as a powerful storm system moves in, bringing severe thunderstorms, high winds, heavy rain, and even a tornado threat. While the city is no stranger to bad weather, this storm could pack a punch, with conditions expected to worsen late Saturday into early Sunday.
The National Weather Service is warning residents to stay alert, as this storm could bring damaging 60 mph winds, large hail, and localized flash flooding. If that wasn’t enough, there’s also a risk of isolated tornadoes, making this a storm you don’t want to take lightly.
What’s Happening With the Weather Right Now?
Right now, New Orleans is calm, with mostly clear skies and a temperature of 51°F (10°C). But don’t let that fool you—this is just the quiet before the storm.
The Storm Timeline—What to Expect Over the Next Few Days
The weather is about to take a wild turn as we head into the weekend:
- Friday, February 14: A warm, humid day with clouds building in the afternoon. Scattered thunderstorms possible by the evening. Highs will reach 65°F (18°C), with lows staying around 63°F (17°C).
- Saturday, February 15: This is when things get dangerous. The day will start warm and humid, with highs soaring to 82°F (28°C). By late afternoon, expect strong winds and severe thunderstorms, with the potential for tornadoes and flooding.
- Sunday, February 16: The storm moves out in the morning, leaving windy and much cooler conditions. Highs will be 62°F (17°C), dropping to a chilly 40°F (5°C) overnight.
- Monday, February 17: A cool, sunny day with highs near 59°F (15°C).
Why This Storm Is Dangerous
New Orleans has seen plenty of storms, but this one has the potential to create multiple threats at once. The biggest concerns include:
- Tornadoes: Some storms could spawn isolated tornadoes, which are especially dangerous at night when they’re harder to see.
- Damaging Winds: Gusts could hit 60 mph or higher, bringing down trees, power lines, and even causing roof damage.
- Flash Flooding: Heavy rainfall could quickly overwhelm streets and drainage systems, leading to dangerous flooding in low-lying areas.
- Hail & Lightning: The storms could produce large hail and frequent lightning, increasing the risk of property damage and power outages.
How to Stay Safe Before and During the Storm
Don’t wait until it’s too late—start preparing now! Here’s what you should do to stay safe:
- Stay Informed: Check weather updates regularly. If a tornado warning is issued, take cover immediately.
- Have an Emergency Kit Ready: Make sure you have flashlights, extra batteries, bottled water, food, and medications in case of power outages.
- Secure Loose Objects: Patio furniture, garbage cans, and decorations can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds. Bring them inside or tie them down.
- Charge Your Devices: Power outages are possible, so make sure your phones, tablets, and backup chargers are fully charged.
- Know Your Tornado Plan: If a tornado forms, go to an interior room with no windows on the lowest floor. Avoid mobile homes, which are especially vulnerable.
- Don’t Drive Through Flooded Streets: Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock you over, and one foot can sweep a car away. Turn around, don’t drown!
Final Warning—Take This Storm Seriously!
This storm could bring real danger to New Orleans, so don’t ignore the warnings. Stay informed, be prepared, and take action before the worst of the weather hits Saturday night.
Storms like this can escalate quickly, and waiting too long to prepare could put you in harm’s way. Make a plan, check on your loved ones, and be ready for whatever this storm brings. Stay safe, New Orleans
