NEW ORLEANS, LA – The Gulf air feels heavy this morning as low clouds drift over New Orleans, bringing that unmistakable calm before the next wave of December rain and thunder. Umbrellas and windshield wipers will be in high demand as the metro heads into two wet days of weather.
According to the National Weather Service in New Orleans, showers and thunderstorms will persist through Monday evening, with a few storms capable of brief downpours and gusts near 25 mph. While no severe storms are expected, pockets of heavy rain could lead to ponding on streets and slowdowns along I-10, I-610, and Causeway Boulevard during peak travel hours.
Rain chances climb above 80% Monday, with temperatures reaching near 66°F before dropping into the low 50s overnight. By Tuesday morning, cooler air filters in behind the front, giving way to sunshine and highs in the upper 50s. The midweek stretch looks dry and pleasant, a welcome pause before another system brings scattered rain chances by late Thursday.
Travelers returning home from Thanksgiving weekend should plan for reduced visibility and slick streets through Monday morning. Allow extra time for commutes and secure outdoor decorations as gusts increase this afternoon.
Five-Day Outlook (New Orleans Area)
- Monday: Showers and thunderstorms, high 66°F, breezy.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 57°F, cooler air.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 62°F.
- Thursday: Showers likely late, high 65°F.
- Friday: Scattered rain, high 63°F.
