Severe Weather Update: Thursday, February 16, 2023

Good morning Tangi,
Click HERE for an update concerning the severe weather threat today and tonight.

Changes from the previous update are minimal.

Overview:
WHAT: MARGINAL RISK to SLIGHT RISK to ENHANCED RISK of Severe Weather

WHEN: Today and this evening

WHERE: The entire area but the greatest threat will be east of I-55 and north of I-12 in LA and I-10 in coastal MS.

CONFIDENCE:
We are confident that there will be thunderstorms across the area and confidence is increasing in thunderstorm development occurring as early as midday if not earlier. Confidence is increasing that a few severe storms will develop during the afternoon across portions of the Florida parishes and southwest MS but how much farther into southeast and south-central LA is uncertain.

Impacts:
The main threats associated with any severe storms will be:
Damaging Winds:

• Wind gusts greater than 60 mph will be possible
• Trees and powerlines could be damaged and lead to isolated/scattered power outages

Large Hail:

• Large hail up to 2 inches in diameter will be possible

Tornadoes:

• Tornadoes will be possible, and a few could be strong

Rainfall:

• In addition to the severe weather threat, rainfall of 1 to 2 inches is forecast with locally higher amounts expected.
• This rainfall could lead to ponding of water in low-lying areas and areas of poor drainage.
• Street flooding is likely from some storms, and flash flooding will be possible in the areas that receive the most rain.