Louisiana — A Flood Watch remains in effect across much of southeast Louisiana and portions of southern Mississippi through Saturday morning as heavy rainfall increases the risk of flooding.
According to the National Weather Service in New Orleans, widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are expected during the watch period, with localized amounts possibly reaching 6 inches. The excessive rainfall could lead to flash flooding as well as flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying or flood-prone areas.
The Flood Watch covers a large area of southeast Louisiana, including the Baton Rouge metro, New Orleans metro, River Parishes, Northshore, Bayou Parishes, and coastal areas. Parishes included range from East Baton Rouge, Iberville, Ascension, Livingston, Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, Orleans, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, St. James, Lafourche, Terrebonne, Plaquemines, and St. Bernard, among others.
In southern Mississippi, the watch includes portions of Pike, Walthall, Amite, Pearl River, and Hancock counties, including communities such as McComb, Tylertown, Poplarville, Picayune, Bay St. Louis, and Waveland.
The National Weather Service warned that flooding may occur in urban areas with poor drainage, as well as along small waterways that respond quickly to heavy rain. Roads may become flooded with little warning, particularly overnight or during periods of intense rainfall.
Residents are urged to monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action if Flash Flood Warnings are issued. Drivers should avoid flooded roadways and remember that most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles.
The Flood Watch is expected to remain in effect through Saturday morning, though it may be extended depending on rainfall trends.
