Louisiana Severe Weather & Outages
A round of Louisiana severe weather is developing across portions of southeastern Louisiana and nearby areas this afternoon, with strong and severe thunderstorms, special weather statements, marine concerns, and scattered power outages being reported. The National Weather Service is currently tracking severe thunderstorms across West Feliciana and East Feliciana parishes. (National Weather Service)
Residents should remain weather-aware as storms can produce damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning, heavy rainfall, and localized flooding, while stronger storms may become severe.
Strong Thunderstorm Near Garden City
A strong thunderstorm was reported near Garden City, or approximately 10 miles southwest of Meadville, moving west at around 10 mph.
The storm prompted a Special Weather Statement for Western Franklin County.
Although a Special Weather Statement is not the same as a Severe Thunderstorm Warning, conditions can change quickly. Strong storms can intensify, particularly when they encounter warm, humid and unstable air.
Residents in and around Western Franklin County should monitor radar and be prepared to move indoors if a warning is issued.
What to Watch For
The strongest storms may produce:
- Frequent lightning
- Strong wind gusts
- Torrential rainfall
- Reduced visibility
- Ponding and localized flooding
- Downed tree limbs and power lines
Never remain outdoors to watch an approaching thunderstorm. Move into a sturdy building as storms approach.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for St. Francisville, Wakefield and Spillman
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is affecting portions of the St. Francisville area, including St. Francisville, Wakefield and Spillman.
The National Weather Service’s current information indicates severe thunderstorms across southeastern West Feliciana and west-central East Feliciana parishes. (National Weather Service)
Severe thunderstorms can produce dangerous wind gusts capable of knocking down trees, damaging structures and causing power outages.
Take Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Seriously
If you are in or near the warning area:
- Move indoors immediately.
- Stay away from windows and exterior doors.
- Avoid trees, open fields and elevated locations.
- Bring lightweight outdoor objects inside if it is safe to do so.
- Do not drive through flooded roadways.
- Keep phones charged in case of power loss.
If thunder is audible, lightning is close enough to pose a threat. Remain indoors until the storm has passed.
Special Weather Statement for North Central East Feliciana Parish and Nearby Areas
Another Special Weather Statement covers North Central East Feliciana Parish, Wilkinson County and Western Amite County.
Storms in this region could bring locally heavy rainfall, gusty winds and frequent lightning. Because thunderstorms can strengthen rapidly, residents should continue monitoring updated warnings rather than relying only on the initial statement.
Marine Weather Statement for Lake Maurepas
Thunderstorms are also affecting the waters around Lake Maurepas, where a Marine Weather Statement has been issued.
Boaters should take thunderstorms seriously. Lightning, sudden wind shifts, heavy rain and rapidly deteriorating visibility can create dangerous conditions on the water.
Boating Safety
If thunderstorms approach:
- Head toward a safe harbor whenever possible.
- Do not remain on exposed water during lightning.
- Secure loose equipment.
- Monitor marine weather updates.
- Wear a properly fitted life jacket while underway.
- Avoid attempting to outrun rapidly strengthening storms.
Power Outages Reported Across Louisiana Parishes
The storms are also being accompanied by reported power outages in several Louisiana parishes.
Tangipahoa Parish
Power outages are being reported in Tangipahoa Parish, where thunderstorms may contribute to downed trees, damaged power lines and localized service interruptions.
East Feliciana Parish
East Feliciana Parish is also experiencing reported power outages as thunderstorms move through the region.
Residents should assume that downed lines may still be energized. Never touch a fallen power line or anything in contact with it.
Iberville Parish
Iberville Parish is also reporting power outages. Residents should prepare for the possibility of additional interruptions if thunderstorms strengthen or move through the area.
Why These Storms Matter
Late-summer thunderstorms across Louisiana can develop quickly because of the combination of warm temperatures, abundant moisture and atmospheric instability.
As storms develop, strong updrafts can build towering cumulonimbus clouds. Downdrafts then transport stronger winds toward the surface, while intense rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems in a short period of time.
Additionally, frequent lightning is common with vigorous thunderstorms.
Power Outage Safety
If your electricity goes out during severe weather, use battery-powered flashlights instead of candles whenever possible.
Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to preserve food temperatures. Disconnect sensitive electronics if power fluctuations are occurring, but only if it is safe to do so.
Most importantly, stay away from downed electrical wires.
If you encounter a fallen power line, stay away and report it to the appropriate utility or emergency authorities.
Radar Watch HQ Storm Safety Reminder
Weather conditions can change quickly across Louisiana this afternoon. A storm that begins as a strong thunderstorm can intensify into a severe thunderstorm, while heavy rain can create localized flooding even outside the most intense part of a storm.
Residents in Western Franklin County, North Central East Feliciana Parish, Wilkinson County, Western Amite County, St. Francisville, Wakefield, Spillman, Tangipahoa Parish, East Feliciana Parish and Iberville Parish should continue monitoring weather updates.
Radar Watch HQ Final Thoughts
Today’s weather setup is a reminder that Louisiana severe weather can develop quickly, especially during the warm and humid late-summer months.
With severe thunderstorms, marine storms and power outages occurring across portions of the region, staying informed is one of the best ways to reduce risk. Keep alerts enabled, have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and move indoors immediately when severe weather threatens.
Stay weather-aware, stay prepared, and never underestimate a rapidly strengthening thunderstorm.
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Radar Watch HQ Top 5 Essential Emergency Preparedness Picks
Whether you’re preparing for severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, or extended power outages, these five emergency essentials can help keep your household safer when severe weather strikes.
A portable power station provides reliable backup electricity during outages, allowing you to power phones, medical devices, laptops, lights, small appliances, and communication equipment without fuel.
Best for:
- Extended power outages
- Severe thunderstorms
- Hurricanes
- Winter storms
- Wildfires
2. Flood Protection Barriers & Sandless Flood Bags
Flood barriers help divert or absorb water before it enters garages, doorways, and low-lying areas. They deploy quickly and can help reduce property damage during flash flooding.
Best for:
- Flash Flood Warnings
- Heavy rainfall
- River flooding
- Coastal flooding
3. Rechargeable LED Flashlights
Bright, dependable flashlights are essential when the power goes out. Rechargeable or solar-powered models provide long-lasting illumination for navigating safely indoors and outdoors.
Best for:
- Overnight power outages
- Emergency evacuations
- Storm damage inspections
Keep phones, tablets, weather radios, and USB-powered devices charged when the electrical grid is unavailable. A solar power bank offers an additional charging option during prolonged emergencies.
Best for:
- Communication during outages
- Emergency weather alerts
- Travel and evacuation
A NOAA Weather Radio delivers official weather alerts directly from the National Weather Service, even when cellular networks or internet service are unavailable. It remains one of the most dependable ways to receive life-saving warnings.
Best for:
- Tornado warnings
- Severe thunderstorm warnings
- Flash flood warnings
- Hurricane alerts
- Winter storm emergencies
Why Radar Watch HQ Recommends These Essentials
At Radar Watch HQ, preparedness is just as important as staying informed. These five emergency essentials can help you stay connected, protect your property, and safely navigate severe weather events. Having supplies ready before storms arrive allows you to respond quickly when warnings are issued and conditions begin to deteriorate.
