City Encourages Residents to Prepare for Storms Thursday
Storms, some of which could be severe, are forecast to move through New Orleans in the afternoon on Thursday, April 25. Residents and visitors are encouraged to prepare for potentially severe weather and to stay weather aware.
New Orleans is under a slight risk for severe weather and excessive rainfall this afternoon. Multiple rounds of thunderstorms are possible and current forecasts place most of these impacts between 12:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Some of these storms will have the potential to become severe, and could include strong wind gusts (60+ mph), isolated tornadoes, heavy rainfall and flooding, and hail. A tornado watch is in effect including Orleans Parish until 3:00 p.m. Rainfall totals between one and three inches are expected. Locally higher amounts will be possible, especially in areas where multiple storms pass over the same location. Areas receiving heavy rainfall could see flooding in low-lying or poor drainage areas.
The New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is monitoring severe weather and is in close communication with the National Weather Service.
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.