Flash Flood Threat Prompts Warning for Interstate Drivers

Heavy rainfall has prompted meteorologists at the National Weather Service (NWS) office in New Orleans to issue a warning to motorists, particularly those traveling along Interstates 10 and 610.
A flash flood warning is in effect for the city after a radar-warned thunderstorm laden with heavy rain moved into the area late Friday morning. Up to 3 inches of rain have already fallen, according to the alert, and up to an additional 3 inches are possible.
“Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly,” said the alert, which was issued at 10:20 a.m. Central time.
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The alert is expected to expire at 12:15 p.m. Central time. Areas most likely to experience flash flooding are New Orleans, Timberlane, Harvey, Chalmette, Belle Chasse, Marrero, Avondale, Metairie, Jefferson, Gretna, Harahan, Westwego, Terrytown, Arabi, Woodmere, Estelle, Meraux, Bridge City, Violet and Poydras.
“This includes the following Interstates…Interstate 10 in Louisiana between mile markers 225 and 244. Interstate 610 between mile markers 1 and 4,” the NWS alert said.
“Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas,” the alert continued. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.”
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NWS meteorologist Kevin Gilmore told Newsweek that as of Friday at around noon local time there were no plans to extend the warning. Without counting Friday’s rain, New Orleans’ monthly rainfall totaled slightly more than 2 inches, a 4-inch departure from the normal month-to-date amount of 6.44 inches. Gilmore said the rain seen on Friday would be mostly beneficial.
In addition to the flash flood warning, a flood watch, flood advisory, special marine warning and hazardous weather outlook were in place for the New Orleans forecast region. Despite the flash flood warning’s expiration on Friday afternoon, the flood watch was expected to remain in place until 7 p.m. Central time.
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The heavy rain comes as meteorologists have warned of excessive rainfall expected this weekend throughout parts of the South, including Texas and Louisiana. Oklahoma and Arkansas also are expecting bouts of heavy rain, according to a rainfall forecast map posted Friday by the NWS West Gulf River Forecast Center.
The incoming rainfall isn’t expected to cause any catastrophic flooding, the forecast said, although it might put a damper on holiday weekend celebrations. Drought is prevalent across the regions expecting rainfall, and the forecast said rain would likely prove beneficial for the dry areas.