Impending Severe Weather Threatens Rainy Mardi Gras Parades in Texas

Heavy Rainfall and Thunderstorms Expected in Southeast

Introduction

Prepare for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms along the Interstate 10 corridor this weekend. Areas around New Orleans and Savannah, Georgia could receive 2-3 inches of rainfall.

Storm System Moving Through Southeast

A storm system that brought heavy rainfall to the Pacific Northwest and California is now making its way through the Southeast. This system is accompanied by heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.

Severe Thunderstorm Watch in Central Texas

The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for a large part of Central Texas. Several tornadoes have already been reported in the area.

Impacts on Mardi Gras Festivities

While fewer severe storms are expected due to less instability along the Gulf Coast, the heavy rainfall can still cause issues, especially for ongoing Mardi Gras celebrations.

Increased Risk of Excessive Rainfall and Flooding

The NOAA’s Weather Prediction Center has identified parts of southeastern Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi as being at an increased risk for excessive rainfall and flooding. This includes Baton Rouge and New Orleans, where month-long Mardi Gras celebrations are taking place.

Adjusted Mardi Gras Parade Schedules

As a result of the heavy rainfall predictions, some Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans have had to adjust their schedules. Five krewes have started rolling two hours earlier, and one krewe has postponed their parade until Sunday. The safety of attendees is a priority, as large floats can attract lightning.

Transition of Rainfall from West to Southeast

The heavy rainfall that impacted the West is now expected to move into the Southeast. This is a common pattern during active El Niño periods.

Rainfall Forecast

Forecast models indicate widespread rainfall of 1-2 inches across the South, with some areas potentially receiving 3-4 inches. Flash Flood Watches have already been issued for certain counties in Mississippi.

Beneficial Rains and Drought Conditions

The recent storm systems have brought much-needed rain to the region, reducing extreme and exceptional drought conditions by more than half. However, significant portions of Louisiana and Mississippi still remain dry.

Continued Chances of Precipitation

While the storm system is expected to move off the East Coast by Tuesday morning, the active southern jet during the El Niño pattern suggests that the Gulf Coast may still experience precipitation in the future.

Severe Weather Reports

Storm chasers have spotted at least two tornadoes in Texas, although no widespread damage or injuries have been reported. The Storm Prediction Center has also received reports of quarter-sized hail and strong wind gusts.

Read More of this Story at www.foxweather.com – 2024-02-03 05:14:00