Louisiana Travel Alert: Gulf Disturbance to Hit Louisiana

If you have travel plans to South Louisiana this weekend, be sure to check the local forecast at your destination as a heavy rainfall 'disturbance' is expected to hit Louisiana today.

Gulf Coast Weather Alert: Minor Disturbance Expected 

Residents along the Gulf Coast should prepare for a developing weather disturbance in the coming days. While this system isn't expected to become a major storm, it could still bring significant impacts, primarily in the form of heavy rainfall. 

Potential for Street Flooding and Heavy Rains 

According to LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim, this disturbance is likely to be a "minor nuisance." The most significant concern is the potential for street flooding, an issue authorities will be closely monitoring. Keim notes that there's less than a 50% chance of this system escalating into a tropical cyclone, with the National Hurricane Center estimating a 40% chance of it developing into a tropical depression — a closed circular rotation. While high winds are not anticipated to be a factor, the system is projected to bring substantial rainfall. 

Landfall and Governor's Update 

Current forecasts suggest the disturbance could make landfall in Louisiana sometime on Thursday. After reaching the coast, it's expected to linger in the south-central part of the state for a period of 24 to 36 hours, potentially dropping a large amount of rain. In response to the evolving situation, Governor Landry is scheduled to hold a news conference tomorrow morning at GOHSEP to provide an update on the state's emergency preparedness and response efforts