Hazardous Weather Update: June 17, 2024

Attached is an update concerning the multi-hazard threats through midweek loosely associated with a broad area of low pressure in the southwestern Gulf of Mexico.

Changes from previous update:

  • The probability of tropical cyclone development in the southwestern Gulf has increased slightly, but only indirect impacts are expected locally
  • The heavy rain and gusty wind threats remain roughly the same

Overview:

A broad area of low pressure over the southwestern Gulf is expected to become better organized over the next few days and will indirectly result in multiple hazards across the local area through midweek.

Potential Impacts:

Locally Heavy Rain:

  • Generally 1-3″ of additional rainfall is forecast through Tuesday with the highest totals along and south of the Interstate 10/12 corridor.
  • A few storms could produce high rainfall rates resulting in localized ponding of water in low lying and poor drainage areas and/or isolated flash flooding, mainly during the day Monday.

Gusty Winds:

  • Winds will strengthen beginning tomorrow and are forecast to be quite gusty by Tuesday and Wednesday, especially south of the tidal lakes.
  • Peak wind gusts south of the lake could reach the 35-40 mph range, especially Wednesday, and a wind advisory may become necessary.
  • The gusty winds could blow around loose outdoor items and lead to difficult driving conditions on some elevated roadways.

Coastal Flooding:

  • Tides will rise above normal by Tuesday morning and will peak during the high tide cycle Wednesday.
  • Minor to potentially moderate coastal flooding is expected with some roads potentially becoming covered with water or impassable, especially Wednesday.
  • Some roads may become impassable in the Shoreline Park area around Bay St. Louis, and water may cover some lower sections of Hwy 1 between Port Fourchon and Grand Isle during the high tide Wednesday.