Louisiana wakes up to thick gray skies and damp air, and conditions are already shifting toward a storm-heavy day across New Orleans.
According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms are developing through late morning across New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, and Gretna, with rain chances near 90% through the afternoon. Temperatures will hover between 69°F and 73°F, keeping roads wet and visibility reduced.
This is part of a broader Gulf-fed system pushing steady moisture into southeast Louisiana, fueling repeated rounds of rain and embedded storms.
The most disruptive window builds from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., when heavier downpours and thunderstorms may produce 0.50 to 1.00 inches of rain. Water can pool quickly on I-10, I-610, and Claiborne Avenue, especially in low-lying underpasses and flood-prone intersections near downtown New Orleans. Drivers should expect slick pavement, slower traffic, and sudden visibility drops.
Localized street flooding is possible in poor drainage areas, particularly in parts of Mid-City and along canal-adjacent roadways. Lightning and brief gusty winds could also interrupt outdoor plans and delay flights at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
Avoid driving through water-covered roads and allow extra time during the afternoon commute. Secure outdoor items ahead of storms.
Rain continues into late evening before tapering, with lingering showers possible into early Saturday morning.
Five-day outlook:
Saturday: 70°F, morning showers then clearing
Sunday: 74°F, sunny and calmer
Monday: 78°F, mostly sunny
Tuesday: 83°F, partly sunny
Wednesday: 87°F, storm chances return
