Four Tornadoes Confirmed in Southeast Louisiana

National Weather Service confirms multiple twisters touched down early Sunday morning

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The National Weather Service has confirmed that four tornadoes struck Southeast Louisiana in the early hours of Sunday morning. The twisters, ranging from EF0 to EF1 in strength, caused damage in several communities including Donaldsonville, Franklinton, Folsom, and Thibodaux.

Why it matters

Severe weather events like these tornadoes can cause significant property damage and pose risks to public safety. The confirmation of multiple touchdowns highlights the need for robust early warning systems and emergency preparedness in the region.

The details

According to the report, the first tornado was an EF1 that touched down just after midnight near Donaldsonville, with winds exceeding 100 mph. Around 12:45 AM, two EF1 tornadoes were on the ground near Franklinton and Folsom, with winds between 90-95 mph. Also around 12:45 AM, an EF0 tornado struck near Thibodaux, with winds up to 85 mph.

  • Just after midnight Sunday morning, an EF1 tornado touched down near Donaldsonville.
  • Around 12:45 AM, two EF1 tornadoes were on the ground near Franklinton and Folsom.
  • Also around 12:45 AM, an EF0 tornado struck near Thibodaux.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for weather forecasting and issuing severe weather warnings.

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The takeaway

This severe weather event underscores the importance of having robust emergency preparedness plans in place to protect communities from the risks posed by tornadoes and other extreme weather.