Aerial view of a rain-soaked New Orleans cityscape as a tropical system approaches.
New Orleans is preparing for significant rainfall, with forecasts predicting up to 10 inches from a tropical system entering the Gulf of Mexico. Local officials are urging residents to clear drainage systems to prevent flooding as multiple rounds of heavy rain are expected starting Wednesday. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for the area, highlighting concerns about urban flooding and drainage challenges. This storm could develop into Tropical Storm Dexter, marking the fourth named storm of the 2025 hurricane season, prompting widespread preparation efforts across the region.
New Orleans is bracing for significant rainfall as local officials prepare for up to 10 inches from an incoming tropical system. The forecast indicates that the anticipated rainfall will exceed the average monthly total for July, which raises concerns for residents and businesses alike as the area gears up for one of its first storm threats of the 2025 hurricane season.
The tropical system is currently moving over Florida and is expected to enter the Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday, according to information from the National Hurricane Center. Multiple rounds of heavy rainfall are anticipated to begin on Wednesday and persist until at least Saturday morning, as detailed by the National Weather Service (NWS).
In response to this forecast, local leaders are urging residents and businesses to proactively clear catch basins and clean gutters to help mitigate potential flooding. The drainage systems in New Orleans and Jefferson Parish are designed to manage rainfall efficiently, with pumps capable of handling 1 inch of rain during the first hour and an additional 0.5 inch per hour thereafter when operating at full capacity.
As of Tuesday, 86 out of 93 major drainage pumps in New Orleans were operational, although it was noted that two power turbines were down and only available for emergency use. In Jefferson Parish, all 194 drainage pumps were confirmed to be functioning properly, according to the drainage director. Entergy, the local utility company, is also monitoring the storm’s progress and preparing for severe weather conditions in south Louisiana.
A flood watch will become effective in the New Orleans metro area, the north shore, Houma, Grand Isle, and Baton Rouge starting Wednesday afternoon, lasting until late Friday night. The Acadiana region will see its flood watch begin on Thursday morning and extend through Saturday evening. Forecasters predict that areas in southeast Louisiana could experience rainfall totals ranging from 3 to 6 inches, with isolated spots potentially receiving up to 10 inches. Some locations near Lafayette could face even more severe outcomes, with estimates climbing to 15 inches under worst-case scenarios.
The heaviest rain is expected between Thursday and Friday, which poses increased risks of flooding, particularly in low-lying regions and areas known for susceptibility to water accumulation, including local rivers and creeks. Excessive runoff from these anticipated rainfall amounts is likely to result in flooding, especially in urban environments that struggle with drainage issues.
Recent patterns of extreme weather reveal alarming trends, with the current year marking the highest number of flood warnings across the U.S. since records began in 1986. The looming threat of flooding has become even more prominent, particularly against the backdrop of severe flooding events that have occurred in various states, including Texas and the northeastern U.S.
The low-pressure system currently has a 40% chance of developing into a tropical depression or storm within the next two days. Should it strengthen, it could be designated as Tropical Storm Dexter, making it the fourth named storm of the ongoing 2025 Atlantic hurricane season.
Meteorologists continue to keep a close eye on the system’s path once it reaches the Gulf of Mexico, which will help determine the areas with the potential for the heaviest rainfall. As individual parish predictions may vary, residents are advised to stay informed, prepare for the possibility of flooding, and follow directives from local authorities to ensure their safety.
Flood Watch Issued for Southeast Louisiana
New Federal Tax Credit Program Expands School Choice
New Orleans’ Educational Transformation Post-Katrina
New Partnership Aims to Redevelop Abandoned Schools in New Orleans
National WWII Museum Celebrates 25th Anniversary
E-Crane International Unveils Largest Electric Crane at Port of Iberia
Heat Advisory Issued for Southeast Louisiana
Tangipahoa Chamber Hosts Luncheon on Education and Economic Growth
Flood Advisory and Flash Flood Warning in Southeast Louisiana
Tyler Shough’s Contract Uncertainty as Saints Training Camp Approaches
News Summary A panel of three federal appellate judges has deemed Louisiana's law requiring the…
News Summary Federal prosecutors have unsealed a 62-count indictment against five individuals, including law enforcement…
News Summary Five individuals, including three police chiefs and a businessman, have been indicted on…
News Summary On June 17, 2025, ICE conducted a raid at Delta Downs Racetrack, Hotel…
News Summary Louisiana Tech University has accepted an invitation to join the Sun Belt Conference,…
News Summary The New Orleans Steamboat Company kicked off its latest vessel, the CITY of…