Residents Encouraged to Take Precautions During Flash Flood Watch

The National Weather Service forecasts heavy rain and potentially severe thunderstorms across Southeast Louisiana, including the New Orleans area, tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 27. A flash flood watch will be in effect Thursday morning through late Thursday night. Two to four inches of rain is anticipated across the region, with locally higher amounts possible. The greatest threat of heavy rain will begin in the late afternoon lasting into the overnight hours. Additionally, severe thunderstorms with damaging wind gusts are possible, with the greatest threat from late morning Thursday through the afternoon hours. Residents are encouraged to stay weather aware and take precautions during severe weather.

Ahead of rain, residents are urged to clean out gutters, downspouts, and in front of catch basins to reduce the risk of flooding. For more information on preparing for rain, visit http://ready.nola.gov/plan/flooding/

During heavy rain, use caution around areas prone to significant street flooding, like streets under bridges and overpasses. The New Orleans Police Department will ticket motorists who drive faster than 5 mph on streets with standing water. Due to the potentially severe danger that could result from high water, residents should call 9-1-1 to report street flooding and life-threatening emergencies. Reports of street flooding are shown in real time at streetwise.nola.gov.

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