Tornado Watch Extended as Severe Weather Threatens Mardi Gras Celebrations

NEW ORLEANS, La. — A Tornado Watch has been extended for Southeastern Louisiana, including the city of New Orleans, as Mardi Gras festivities carry on. The watch remains in effect until 9 p.m. CT as meteorologists warn of severe weather conditions, including damaging winds and potential tornadoes.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has indicated that the probability of a tornado forming within 25 miles is estimated to range from 5% to 14%. With storm gusts predicted to reach between 45 and 60 mph, the NWS is encouraging residents to prepare for severe thunderstorms in the afternoon and evening.

“Mardi Gras is traditionally a windy and warm time of year, but this year is particularly concerning,” said a meteorologist from the NWS. “With a 90% chance of thunderstorms developing in the late afternoon, we urge everyone to stay vigilant.”

According to the latest forecasts, the most active window for severe weather will occur between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. CT, when many revelers are expected to be outdoors enjoying the celebrations.

In addition to the Tornado Watch, a High Wind Warning has also been issued, indicating sustained winds from the south at 15 to 25 mph with potential gusts nearing hurricane strength in certain areas. A Coastal Flood Advisory is currently in effect until 9 p.m. CT.

“We are tracking a line of severe storms expected to pass through New Orleans later today, and we advise residents to secure any loose items that could become airborne,” the meteorologist added.

More than 1,000 police officers are deployed across the city to maintain safety during the Mardi Gras celebrations amid the inclement weather. This comes after prior announcements of shorter parade routes to ensure public safety.

The NWS has reported that this severe weather system also extends beyond Louisiana, impacting parts of Mississippi where heavy winds have already resulted in power outages. Governor Tate Reeves confirmed that at least two fatalities occurred in Mississippi due to severe weather, underscoring the life-threatening nature of these storms.

As conditions develop through the evening, meteorologists advise that residents stay informed through multiple sources, including the NWS alerts and local news outlets. “Our team will provide the latest updates as this situation evolves,” a local forecaster stated.

The storm system that is currently impacting the area is expected to move eastward, potentially affecting various states across the southeastern United States in the days to come. Approximately 170 million people may be impacted nationwide by the severe weather, underscoring the extensive reach of this storm event.