There is a rare threat of severe Stage 4 storms across the state today

NEW… The Storm Prediction Center has upgraded the risk of severe weather across our north to level four out of five for today. Future radar shows storms developing late morning into early afternoon. These early storms begin near I-10 and mature as they move toward central parts of the state. These cells will be able to produce large hail and acquire rotation. A main line of storms will move into the region later this afternoon/evening. Then tornadoes and damaging wind gusts become the main threat. Large hail, tornadoes and damaging winds are possible today. There is a possibility of stronger (EF2+) tornadoes in central portions of the state and into Mississippi. I still believe most of the most significant severe weather reports will be north of Acadiana, but it will be a close call. The communities in the north are most at risk.

As low pressure peaks later in the afternoon and evening, wind shear will also peak. That’s when damaging winds and tornadoes become the biggest threat. Supercells capable of producing stronger tornadoes will likely originate (develop) near I-10 in the afternoon/early evening and move into northern Acadiana and central portions of the state.

This highlighted area north of I-10, extending into central Louisiana and Mississippi, is at greatest risk for stronger tornadoes.

The final line of storms will move through Acadiana during the evening hours, bringing a greater threat of damaging winds. Most storms should be over and out of the area by 10 p.m.

I need to emphasize the difference between winter storms and those that occur in the spring. During the spring months (March-May), the cold waters of the northern Gulf can limit instability and weaken storms as they pass through. These December-January systems are different in the sense that colder Gulf waters may have less impact on the overall system due to the nature of these subtropical jet stream systems. Many of our largest real-life severe weather events occur during these winter months. For this reason, it is imperative that we take the threat seriously. Here’s what you can do:

1. Download the KLFY Weather app to receive alerts directly to your mobile device

2. If you live in an RV or a home surrounded by large trees, be sure to keep a close eye on the weather. Stay with a friend, neighbor or family member if you don’t feel safe

3. Tune in to the KLFY broadcast as we will provide you up-to-the-minute severe weather updates

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