Good news first—Louisiana is waking up to a picture-perfect St. Patrick’s Day! The sun is shining, temperatures are warm but comfortable, and there’s just enough of a breeze to keep things pleasant. Whether you’re heading out for a parade, firing up the grill, or just soaking up the day with friends and family, it’s a fantastic time to be outdoors.
But don’t get too used to the sunshine, because big changes are coming. As we move deeper into the week, spring will arrive with a stormy punch, bringing rain, thunderstorms, and possibly severe weather.
Soak Up the Sun While You Can
Today is the kind of day we wish we could bottle up and keep forever. Expect highs in the upper 70s to low 80s, with plenty of blue skies and a comfortable level of humidity. If you’re celebrating in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, or Lafayette, the forecast is nearly identical—just don’t forget the sunscreen if you’ll be out for a while!
Spring Comes In With a Bang
The official start of spring is this week, but instead of gentle breezes and blooming flowers, Louisiana is in for a round of stormy weather. A strong cold front is moving in, and as it collides with our warm, Gulf-fed air, it could set the stage for some intense thunderstorms.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Tuesday & Wednesday: The humidity will creep up, and clouds will start to build. Temperatures will still be warm, but you might notice the air feeling a little heavier—a sign that something’s brewing.
- Wednesday Night into Thursday: This is the period to watch. Forecasters are tracking the potential for strong thunderstorms, heavy rain, and possibly isolated tornadoes. The National Weather Service may issue warnings as we get closer, so stay tuned.
- Friday & The Weekend: Once the storm passes, expect a welcome cooldown. Highs will settle into the upper 60s to low 70s, with crisp, refreshing mornings in the 50s—perfect weather to get outside (without the storms!).
What You Can Do Now
We know Louisiana weather can change in an instant, so here’s how you can stay ahead of the game:
Stay Updated – Keep an eye on the latest forecasts. Whether you check an app, watch your favorite meteorologist, or get alerts on your phone, stay in the loop.
Have a Plan – If you live in an area prone to flooding or severe weather, now is the time to think about your safe space. Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with flashlights, batteries, and bottled water.
Secure Outdoor Items – Lawn chairs, decorations, and trash bins can turn into projectiles in strong winds. A little prep now can save a big mess later.
Prepare for Power Outages – Charge your devices and have a backup power source ready, just in case.
