A Tornado Watch has been officially announced for several regions across Louisiana and Mississippi, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). The alert, issued Sunday morning, will remain active until noon, covering multiple parishes and counties across both states.
Residents are being strongly advised to remain vigilant as the storm system presents a serious threat of tornadoes and damaging winds. Meteorologists from the Associated Press reported that current atmospheric conditions are ideal for the development of severe thunderstorms and rotating storm cells.
Areas Included in the Tornado Watch
In Louisiana, the Tornado Watch includes the following parishes:
- Jefferson
- Washington
- St. Bernard
- Orleans
- St. Tammany
- Plaquemines
Other southeastern regions of the state are also at risk due to the expanding storm front.
In Mississippi, the following counties fall under the Tornado Watch:
- Hancock
- Harrison
- Jackson
- Pearl River
- Walthall
Coastal zones near Lake Pontchartrain and the Mississippi Sound are considered particularly vulnerable due to strong onshore winds and unstable weather patterns.
Local authorities are urging everyone to prepare emergency plans and identify safe shelters in advance. If a Tornado Warning is later issued, individuals should immediately move to a secure location.
Expected Storm Impacts
The National Weather Service office in Jackson highlighted that the main threats include:
- Damaging wind gusts capable of uprooting trees and power lines
- Isolated tornadoes within the storm bands
- Heavy rainfall and possible hail
Rainfall totals could reach 1 to 2 inches, with localized flooding in low-lying areas where downpours intensify. Meteorologists caution that sudden flash flooding is possible in urban and coastal regions.
Safety Guidelines for Residents
As the storm advances, residents should:
- Stay tuned to local radio, TV, or weather apps for real-time updates.
- Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building during a tornado threat.
- Avoid windows, mobile homes, and open areas.
- Keep an emergency kit ready with essentials such as water, flashlights, and first aid supplies.
These simple precautions can make a critical difference during severe weather situations.
