NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A series of powerful storms are currently affecting communities throughout the United States, bringing a range of extreme weather conditions from wildfires in the Southern High Plains to blizzards in the Midwest. The forecast also includes dust storms in the southwest, tornadoes in the South, and blizzard conditions in the Central Plains, prompting adjustments to the Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans. The city has advanced and shortened the timing of its major parades, with police taking measures to ensure the parades proceed smoothly before worsening weather conditions arise.
Despite the alarming forecast, Shalaska Jones and her 2-year-old daughter remain undeterred in their excitement for Mardi Gras festivities, eagerly watching passing floats in hopes of catching coveted coconuts thrown to the crowd. “We were determined to come out regardless of the weather,” Jones stated.
This severe weather situation poses a significant challenge for the National Weather Service following the recent termination of numerous forecasters as part of efforts to downsize the federal government by President Donald Trump. Former employees expressed concerns that the dismissal of meteorologists responsible for crucial local forecasts could potentially endanger lives.
The country is currently facing a multitude of weather threats, including dust storms causing near-zero visibility in parts of New Mexico and west Texas. The National Weather Service has issued Dust Storm Warnings, anticipating widespread blowing dust in the region. A robust weather system this week is expected to bring blizzard conditions, high winds, flash flooding, severe weather, dust storms, and extreme fire weather conditions to the central United States.
The Central Plains and Midwest regions are preparing for blizzard conditions that could create hazardous travel conditions. The Nebraska Department of Transportation has cautioned travelers about low visibility and whiteout conditions across the state, advising adjustments to travel plans for Tuesday. Tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail were forecasted as a strong storm system moved across the nation’s midsection into Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, prompting tornado watches and warnings in several states.
Storms that swept through Texas and Oklahoma caused high winds and rainfall, leading to overturned tractor-trailers and roof damage. Power outages have escalated, affecting hundreds of thousands of customers in Texas and Oklahoma. The highest risk for severe weather spans from east Texas to Alabama, encompassing over 7 million residents in cities like Baton Rouge, Shreveport, Jackson, and Mobile.
As New Orleans braces for severe weather during Mardi Gras, the Police Superintendent has prohibited attendees from bringing umbrellas, tents, or any objects that could become hazardous in gusty winds. In Jefferson Parish, Mardi Gras Day parades have been canceled due to the expected high winds and thunderstorms, underscoring the need for caution and preparedness in the face of unpredictable weather conditions.
“Our utmost priority is to ensure the well-being of everyone in our community, and safety must always be our top concern,” stated Cynthia Lee Sheng, President of Jefferson Parish. The National Weather Service issued a warning that Mardi Gras floats could potentially become unstable, and strong winds could knock down trees and power lines, with gusts reaching up to 60 mph (97 kph) expected on Tuesday afternoon. In Pointe Coupee Parish near Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the impending severe weather conditions led to significant alterations to one of the state’s oldest Mardi Gras festivities. The parade was reorganized to exclude bands, marching groups, and dance teams, which are typically a prominent feature of Carnival Season processions. Furthermore, authorities advanced the start time and advised residents to promptly dismantle tents and clear away trash to mitigate potential hazards posed by the inclement weather. In various cities with Mardi Gras parades, event organizers closely monitored weather forecasts to ensure the safety of attendees.
Meanwhile, Mobile, Alabama, anticipated large crowds gathering for Mardi Gras celebrations on Tuesday. Police closely monitored the weather forecast and assured the public that any changes to the festivities would be promptly communicated. Other cities hosting significant Mardi Gras events included Biloxi, Mississippi, where an annual parade was scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. Additionally, downtown Pensacola in the Florida Panhandle was preparing for a lively festival reminiscent of New Orleans, featuring food trucks, dancing, live entertainment, and a low country seafood boil. Reporting from Atlanta, Martin provided this information, with contributions from Associated Press writers Sara Cline in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Freida Frisaro in Miami, and Susan Montoya Bryan in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
