Severe Storm Threat Looms Over Mardi Gras Weekend

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The National Weather Service has issued a marginal risk for severe storms across most of Louisiana on Saturday, with the heaviest rain and storms expected to arrive after 9 PM. While this could disrupt some Mardi Gras festivities, the timing means most events should be able to proceed as planned, especially on Sunday when the rain is expected to clear out by mid-afternoon.

Why it matters

Mardi Gras is a major cultural and economic event for South Louisiana, so any threat of severe weather has the potential to significantly impact celebrations and parades. The National Weather Service's forecast provides important information for residents and event organizers to prepare and adjust plans accordingly.

The details

The Storm Prediction Center has placed almost all of Louisiana under a "marginal risk" for severe storms on Saturday. While north Louisiana may see earlier impacts, the heavier rain and storms in South Louisiana are expected to hold off until after 9 PM. This timing should allow most Mardi Gras events scheduled for Saturday, including parades, festivals, and the annual Gumbo Cook-off in Lake Charles, to proceed as planned.

• The severe weather threat is expected to extend into the early morning hours of Sunday, February 15.
• The heaviest rain and storms are forecast to arrive in South Louisiana after 9 PM on Saturday, February 14.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the timing and severity of the storms as Mardi Gras weekend approaches.