Severe Storms Possible in Acadiana This Afternoon and Evening
'Tis the season, the season where South Louisiana sees almost a bi-weekly progression of weather systems through the area. These systems, usually in the form of cold fronts, rumble through every three or four days bringing showers, thundershowers, and occasionally colder weather.
A frontal system that is currently draped across North Texas this morning is steadily progressing in the direction of South Louisiana. Forecast models bring frontal passage across most of our area before midnight tonight. In between now and then, we will be looking at an enhanced threat of showers and possibly some severe storms later this afternoon and early this evening.
The Storm Prediction Center has the area generally along and north of U.S. Highway 190 in the "slight risk" zone for severe storms. The rest of Acadiana falls into the "marginal risk" zone. Regardless, there is the potential for some strong gusty winds, heavy downpours, and frequent lightning as storms associated with the system move through.
There appears to be a consensus on when the worst of the weather will be affecting South Louisiana. That window of time is between 4 pm and midnight. Many of the forecast models actually zero in on a time frame between 6 pm and 10 pm.
Why yes, that could put a damper on tonight's football games in Lafayette and in Baton Rouge. But, it shouldn't be a large damper. There could be a brief period of time when weather delays activity in and around the stadium. However, any inclement weather should sweep through quickly.
The outlook for Sunday and the beginning of the workweek is spectacular. Skies should be mostly sunny through Wednesday. Temperatures will be seasonably cool in the morning and light-jacket pleasant in the afternoon.