New Orleans, Louisiana – Louisiana residents should prepare now for multiple rounds of steady rain March 5-11 that could flood low-lying roads and strain drainage systems across the state.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Louisiana sits within a 60 to 70 percent chance of above-normal precipitation during the March 5-11 period. The wet corridor stretches from the Upper Midwest through the Mississippi Valley and into the Gulf Coast, signaling repeated rainfall events rather than a single storm system. Temperatures are also expected to trend above average statewide, increasing runoff and keeping all precipitation in liquid form.
In New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette and Shreveport, periods of moderate to heavy downpours are possible. With saturated ground and urban drainage vulnerabilities, even short bursts of intense rain could create rapid street flooding.
Heavier rainfall may lead to ponding along Interstates 10, 12, 20 and 49, particularly in low-lying parishes and metro corridors. The Mississippi, Atchafalaya and Red rivers could see noticeable rises if repeated rain tracks over the same areas.
Residents should clear storm drains, secure outdoor items and avoid driving through water-covered roads. The wet pattern continues through March 11, and additional flood advisories could be issued if rainfall totals trend higher.
