BATON ROUGE — Strong to severe storms and heavy rainfall are expected to impact much of south Louisiana on Friday, January 8, prompting a Flood Watch and increasing concern for damaging winds, isolated tornadoes and flash flooding.
According to the National Weather Service, storms are expected to move through the region in multiple rounds from early Friday morning through early Saturday, with confidence growing that at least some storms could become severe.
Forecasters warn that the combination of heavy rainfall rates, possibly 1 to 3 inches per hour, could lead to isolated flash flooding.
Flood Watch remains in effect
A Flood Watch is in effect through early Saturday morning, with forecasters calling for widespread rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches. Isolated areas could receive more than 6 inches, especially where storms repeatedly track over the same locations.
Rainfall rates could reach 1 to 3 inches per hour, raising the risk of localized flash flooding, particularly in urban areas and locations with poor drainage. Low-lying roads and underpasses may become impassable.
Two rounds of storms expected Friday
Forecasters now expect two primary rounds of storms, with additional activity possible overnight:
First round: Friday morning (2 a.m. – 10 a.m.)
A line of storms is expected to move through the region early Friday, with medium to high confidence in impacts. While widespread severe weather is not expected, a few storms could become strong, producing damaging winds, heavy rain and isolated tornadoes.
Second round: Friday afternoon through early Saturday (12 p.m. – 6 a.m.)
The second and potentially more impactful round is expected to develop near or south of the I-10/I-12 corridor, then move northeast through the afternoon, evening and overnight hours. Confidence in this round is medium, but forecasters warn conditions may become more favorable for severe weather as the day progresses.
Primary hazards
- Damaging wind gusts capable of downing trees and power lines
- A few tornadoes, especially during the afternoon and evening
- Localized flash flooding in urban and low-lying areas
Storm impacts may vary significantly from one location to another.
This is a developing story. As soon as more details are provided, the story will be updated. Check back for new information.
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