Residents Encouraged to Prepare for Storms Saturday
Storms, some of which could be severe, are forecast to move through New Orleans in the afternoon and overnight Saturday, April 13. Residents and visitors are encouraged to prepare for potentially severe weather and to stay weather aware.
The metro area is under a slight risk of severe weather beginning Saturday afternoon, with the highest risk between roughly 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., according to the National Weather Service. Some of these storms could become severe and could bring strong winds, hail, tornadoes, and heavy rainfall. A Wind Advisory will be in effect from noon to midnight Saturday for all of Southeast Louisiana, as sustained winds of 20 to 25 miles per hour are expected with higher gusts possible. Rainfall totals are expected to be between one to one and a half inches, with locally higher amounts possible.
The New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is monitoring severe weather and is in close communication with the National Weather Service, the New Orleans Police Department, and the French Quarter Festival. At this time, no changes to the festival’s programming are anticipated, however, attendees are encouraged to stay weather aware in the late afternoon hours.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to review storm safety and to make preparations ahead of Saturday’s weather.
Review storm safety tips to ensure your family knows what to do during severe weather.
- During severe thunderstorms, seek shelter from wind and lightning.
- In the case of a tornado warning, go to an interior room on the lowest level. Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls.
- Never drive through flooded areas. Call 9-1-1 to report major street flooding.
Preparing your home and neighborhood before a storm can help reduce potential damage.
- Remove debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Clear debris from in front of catch basins. Don’t lift a catch basin lid.
- Prune trees and shrubs.
- Bring outdoor furniture and decorations inside.
- Secure or bring garbage bins inside.