Lafayette, LA – Torrential downpours have triggered a flash flood warning across eastern Lafayette and western St. Martin parishes, with up to 6 inches of rain already recorded as of early Thursday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, radar detected intense thunderstorms moving through the region around 5:08 a.m. CDT. Rainfall rates are estimated between 3 to 4 inches per hour, with an additional 1 to 3 inches still possible before the warning expires at 7:30 a.m.
Flash flooding is already underway, posing life-threatening risks to urban areas, creeks, highways, and underpasses. Affected locations include Lafayette, Scott, Carencro, Broussard, and Youngsville.
Authorities urge residents to avoid flooded roads and heed the warning: “Turn around, don’t drown.” Most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles, especially during nighttime when water depth is harder to gauge.
Residents should remain alert and prepared for possible water rescues and road closures. Emergency services are monitoring the situation closely. This event follows a pattern of severe spring weather typical for southern Louisiana, though today’s rainfall rates exceed seasonal averages.
Stay tuned to local media for updates and consider relocating to higher ground if necessary.
