New Orleans, La. – Breezy thunderstorms could move into the New Orleans metro by Saturday afternoon, raising travel concerns across Jefferson and Orleans parishes as fall weather patterns shift. Drivers on I-10 and I-610 should plan for possible slick roads and reduced visibility during peak afternoon travel hours.
According to the National Weather Service, a 40 percent chance of storms begins midday Saturday, with gusty winds up to 15 mph from the northeast. Showers may cause temporary flooding in low-lying areas, while lightning could disrupt outdoor activities and early Halloween decorating plans.
Friday will stay mostly sunny with highs near 82 degrees, but showers may develop by Friday night. The wettest period arrives Saturday afternoon through Saturday night, before drier air pushes back in by Sunday morning. Winds remain breezy into the weekend, keeping conditions cooler but less stable for outdoor gatherings.
Families planning weekend festivals or tailgates should pack rain gear and avoid setting up under large trees or near power lines. Those traveling east toward Slidell or across the Causeway Bridge should expect scattered showers and possible delays during Saturday’s storms.
Conditions improve by Sunday, with mostly sunny skies and highs in the lower 80s. The start of next week stays pleasant and dry, offering a solid stretch for outdoor work or Halloween decorating.
Storm chances return late Tuesday into Wednesday, but confidence remains lower for severe impacts.
Warnings remain possible if Saturday’s storm system strengthens. Residents should monitor local alerts and plan around the afternoon rain window.
Five-Day Forecast for New Orleans, Louisiana
- Thursday: Sunny, high 85. Isolated storms late. Low 72.
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 82. Evening storms possible. Low 73.
- Saturday: Breezy storms, high 81. Low 73.
- Sunday: Sunny, high 81. Low 74.
- Monday: Sunny, high 85. Low 75.
