Due to heavy rains, the National Weather Service (NWS) in New Orleans has issued a warning for drivers, especially those on Interstates 10 and 610.
A flash flood warning for the city was activated following a thunderstorm with intense rainfall that hit late Friday morning. Already, up to 3 inches have fallen, with another 3 inches possible.
The alert, issued at 10:20 a.m. Central time, states, “Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.”
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This warning is slated to expire at 12:15 p.m. Central time. Areas at highest risk for flash flooding include New Orleans, Timberlane, Harvey, Chalmette, Belle Chasse, and others in the vicinity.
The NWS alert specifies problematic stretches: “This includes the following Interstates…Interstate 10 in Louisiana between mile markers 225 and 244, and Interstate 610 from mile markers 1 to 4.”
“Expect flash flooding in small creeks, urban settings, highways, and other low-lying areas,” the alert noted, advising, “Turn around, don’t drown when faced with flooded roads. Most fatalities from floods happen in vehicles. Stay aware and do not drive through flooded routes.”
Alongside the flash flood warning, a flood watch, advisory, special marine warning, and hazardous weather outlook are active in the New Orleans area. While the flash flood warning may expire Friday afternoon, the flood watch is expected to last until 7 p.m. Central time.
This heavy rainfall coincides with forecasts of excessive rain throughout parts of the South, including Texas and Louisiana, with Oklahoma and Arkansas also anticipating significant rain, as per the NWS West Gulf River Forecast Center.
While the rainfall could disrupt holiday weekend plans, it is not expected to induce catastrophic flooding. The wet weather may provide some relief for areas currently facing drought conditions.