Baton Rouge, Louisiana – A tropical funnel cloud sighted near Parks Friday afternoon has heightened weather concerns across southern Louisiana, as unstable air and colliding boundaries spark storm development from Lake Charles to New Orleans.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, the funnel cloud was reported at 3:26 p.m. CDT and formed in a moist, unstable tropical air mass. Light, variable winds and sea breeze collisions are fostering conditions ripe for brief funnel clouds—typically short-lived, but capable of causing minor damage if they touch down. A tornado warning may be issued if intensification occurs.
Meanwhile, a strong thunderstorm over Edgard is bringing 50 mph winds and penny-sized hail to portions of St. John the Baptist, Ascension, St. James, and surrounding parishes. Doppler radar at 3:52 p.m. CDT tracked the storm moving north at 10 mph. Interstate drivers on I-10, I-55, and I-310 should prepare for reduced visibility and sudden wind gusts.
Residents from Lafayette to Reserve should secure outdoor items, stay indoors during lightning activity, and monitor alerts through the evening.
Severe weather threats continue through Friday night, with further advisories possible as conditions evolve.
