New Orleans, La. – Afternoon thunderstorms are expected to slow down drivers and outdoor events in New Orleans Friday, with heavy rain and lightning continuing into Saturday. The National Weather Service said storms could drop up to a half-inch of rain in some neighborhoods, with the highest risk of downpours coming after 5 p.m.
According to forecasters, storms will redevelop Saturday afternoon, with a 70% chance of rain across Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Bernard parishes. Brief flooding in low-lying streets is possible, and lightning could delay evening events. Winds will remain light, but periods of heavy rain may make roadways slick, especially along I-10 and major surface streets.
Sunday offers a break, with mostly sunny skies and highs climbing to 92 degrees. Still, the return of scattered showers is likely by Monday afternoon as Gulf moisture lingers. Residents are advised to keep umbrellas handy and allow extra travel time through the weekend.
Storm chances decrease midweek, but isolated showers remain in the forecast through Thursday. Forecasters say another round of daily storms could return by late next week.
Five Day Forecast for New Orleans, La.
- Saturday: Showers and thunderstorms, high near 89. Rain chance 70%.
- Sunday: Sunny and hot, high near 92.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, slight chance of storms after 1 p.m., high near 93.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, isolated showers possible, high near 91.
- Wednesday: Showers and storms return, high near 88.
