Lake Charles, La. – Strong thunderstorms could sweep across central and southwest Louisiana Thursday afternoon, bringing the risk of damaging wind gusts and quarter-size hail to areas including Lake Charles, Beaumont, and Leesville.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, a frontal system will push into the region Thursday, triggering scattered thunderstorms through the evening. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe weather, with the greatest threats being winds over 58 mph and hail exceeding one inch in diameter.
Localized impacts could affect travel on I-10 and US-171, particularly during peak evening hours. Power outages are also possible where stronger cells develop. Residents in Alexandria, De Ridder, and Crowley should stay alert to rapidly changing conditions, as isolated severe storms may form within the broader line of showers.
Preparedness is key — have multiple ways to receive warnings, and secure outdoor items that could become airborne in strong winds. While tornado risk remains low, this is the first organized severe threat since early spring.
Showers may linger into Friday, and heavy rain could bring a marginal flash flood risk to parts of central Louisiana. Weather officials advise staying updated as storm timing and intensity are refined over the next 24 hours.
