Louisiana and Texas Brace For Heavy Rain And Possible Flooding Ahead

A tropical system is expected to scrape across the southern Gulf Coast over the next couple of days, bringing with it the threat of heavy rainfall. Currently, Louisiana looks to have the greatest chance of downpours that could cause flooding.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Excessive Rainfall Outlook map has placed much of south Louisiana in the 'moderate' threat for flooding from this storm system.

The map above (valid from 7 am Friday until 7 am Saturday) indicates that extreme southeast Texas, then up to Alexandria, and along the Interstate 10 corridor to east of Lafayette have a 40% chance of experiencing downpours that could lead to flash flooding.

To be more specific, the red-shaded region means that you have a 40% chance of being within 25 miles of experiencing flash flooding. 10-15 inches of rain is possible in areas south of Lafayette.

The Threat of Flooding in Texas

The areas highlighted in yellow indicate regions that have a 15% chance of being within 25 miles of having flash flooding.

The lakes region east of Lufkin and Nacogdoches is included in this yellow region, as is much of the Golden Triangle east of the Houston/Galveston Metro.

Where Is The Disturbance Heading?

The tropical system is expected to move westward straight into the eastern coastline of Louisiana, near New Orleans. If the center of circulation moves further south into the Gulf, there is the possibility that it could become a minimal tropical storm before it makes landfall in Louisiana.

If the system moves even more to the south, which is still in the forecast cone, the Texas/Louisiana border could be at risk of landfall, as well as increased threats of flooding.

This is a fluid situation, and the forecast tracks of this storm are still subject to change. We will post any significant updates.