Louisiana air feels calm along the Gulf Coast this morning, but that quiet start will not last long. Winds are expected to strengthen quickly across the New Orleans metro as a powerful spring weather system approaches the region.
Palm fronds may sway and lakefront waters will grow choppy by midday.
According to the National Weather Service in New Orleans, a Wind Advisory remains in effect from 4 a.m. Monday until 7 p.m. Monday across southeast Louisiana and coastal Mississippi. North winds between 20 and 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected across the metro area and surrounding parishes.
Communities including New Orleans, Metairie, Gretna, Slidell, Gulfport, and Biloxi may experience the strongest gusts during the daytime hours Monday.
Drivers crossing elevated routes such as Interstate 10 over Lake Pontchartrain, the Causeway Bridge, and the Crescent City Connection could encounter sudden crosswinds. High-profile vehicles may feel the strongest impacts on open bridges and coastal roadways.
Residents should secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, and decorations before winds strengthen.
Rain chances increase tonight as a round of showers and thunderstorms develops before daybreak Monday, bringing periods of heavy rain across the New Orleans area. While severe weather is not guaranteed, gusty storms may briefly intensify winds.
Behind the system, cooler and drier air spreads into southeast Louisiana.
By St. Patrick’s Day Tuesday, skies turn mostly sunny with highs around 56°F, a noticeable drop from the early spring warmth seen this weekend.
Temperatures rebound gradually through midweek as sunshine returns across the Gulf Coast.
By Thursday, highs climb back into the mid-70s, signaling a quick return to mild spring weather along the Louisiana coast.
Five Day Outlook for New Orleans, Louisiana
Today: Mostly sunny and warm. High near 81°F.
Monday: Breezy with decreasing clouds. High near 56°F.
Tuesday – St. Patrick’s Day: Mostly sunny. High near 56°F.
Wednesday: Mostly sunny and mild. High near 66°F.
Thursday: Sunny and warmer. High near 75°F.
