The Farmer's Forecast: High Winds, Tornado Threat

By Nick Mikulas

Louisiana Farm Bureau News/Cenla Weather

Heavy rain and severe weather have already been an issue over parts of Louisiana, and it looks like the entire state gets in on the act today. The Storm Prediction Center has most of the state in a level 3 or 4 out of five risk for severe weather. That is an enhanced, and moderate risk if you are familiar with the language SPC uses. This severe threat will include all modes of severe weather, meaning the potential for fairly widespread damaging wind, isolated tornadoes, and some large hail. There will also be a threat for flooding rain, especially to the north of a DeRidder to Opelousas to Hammond line.

A large, and potentially intense line of storms will move from west to east across Louisiana through the day. After the initial bout of storms, and severe potential, it looks like several hours of moderate to heavy rain will fall behind the main line. This complex of storms will bring anywhere from an inch of rain south of I-10, to 5 or more inches across central and northern Louisiana. This is in addition to what has already fallen in recent days. Widespread wind gusts of 50-75 mph are likely, and a few tornadoes could be embedded in this severe line of storms, and any new development to the south of the initial complex of storms.

Be ready for a day filled with watches and warnings for flooding and severe weather. This system has a history of producing severe weather and flooding, and it looks like Wednesday will be the day the entire state feels at least some impact from this system. After this, it’s smooth sailing through the weekend, into the first part of next week. One quick note. I have to get this submitted before the daily outlook arrives from SPC. So the graphic that says “tomorrow” is for Wednesday.