Severe weather hit the South on Wednesday, with flash flooding and tornadoes threatening the New Orleans area and central Gulf Coast, leading to a flash flood emergency declaration. In Slidell, Louisiana, up to four potential tornadoes caused damage to buildings and streets. More than a dozen flash flood warnings were issued, and roads in and around New Orleans were underwater. Tornado warnings and watches were issued, affecting seven million people in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama.
Daniel Seuzeneau of the Slidell Police Department reported damage from up to four tornadoes, including collapsed buildings and trees on houses. Despite widespread damage, there were no major injuries or deaths reported. In East Texas, flooding in Kirbyville led to school closures and road shutdowns. Local authorities, including the sheriff’s office and emergency authorities, launched rescue efforts in the flooded city with no fatalities or injuries reported.
The storm system approaching the South could bring four inches of rain from northeast Louisiana to southwest Georgia and the Florida Panhandle. Hail and high winds were expected, with warnings for residents and visitors to be prepared and avoid flooded roads. Parts of Mississippi were already experiencing severe weather, with a tornado reported in Raymond and downed trees and power lines across neighboring counties. New Orleans closed City Hall and other city buildings in preparation for the storms.
The Weather Service office in Jackson, Mississippi, warned residents of damaging winds and an increased chance of tornadoes and hail in the area. The severe weather was expected to continue through the afternoon, with schools remaining open in many areas. The cluster of storms moving across the region prompted volunteer rescue efforts in Kirbyville, where stranded people were being pulled out of homes. A shelter was opened to accommodate those affected by the flooding.
Overall, the South faced a day of intense weather with flash flooding, tornadoes, high winds, and hail. Residents and visitors were urged to stay informed and avoid flooded roads. The impact of the severe weather was felt across multiple states in the region, with reports of damage and rescue efforts in various areas. Forecasters predicted that the storms could bring significant rainfall and dangerous conditions throughout the day.
