Emerging
Jun 18, 20261
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Tornado Watch Issued for New Orleans Metro as Post-Tropical Storm Arthur Approaches
A Tornado Watch has been issued for the New Orleans Metro until 6 a.m. Thursday due to Post-Tropical Storm Arthur, with a level 2 slight risk of severe weather affecting southeast Louisiana and south Mississippi. The main hazards include heavy rain and flooding, with potential for gusty winds and isolated tornadoes.
Quick Facts
Who
National Weather Service
What
Tornado Watch issued
When
Until 6 a.m. Thursday
Where
New Orleans Metro
- Tornado Watch issued
- Level 2 slight risk of severe weather declared
- Rainbands from Post-Tropical Storm Arthur expected to spawn severe storms
- Heavy rain and flooding forecast as primary threat
- Gusty winds and isolated tornadoes possible
The National Weather Service has issued a Tornado Watch for the New Orleans Metro area, effective until 6 a.m. Thursday, as Post-Tropical Storm Arthur brings severe weather potential to the region. A level 2 slight risk of severe weather is in effect for much of southeast Louisiana and south Mississippi, with isolated to scattered severe storms expected as rainbands from the tropical system move across the area.
The primary threat from Arthur remains heavy rain and flooding, though residents should also prepare for gusty winds and the possibility of isolated tornadoes as the storm system advances. Strong bands of showers and storms are expected to move into southeast Louisiana after midnight Thursday, with the Northshore and south Mississippi potentially experiencing very wet and stormy conditions by 5 a.m.
Residents in the affected areas are advised to download the free WDSU mobile app and enable weather alerts to receive multiple channels of emergency notifications. The National Weather Service recommends staying informed through the WDSU First Warning Weather Team and other official sources as Post-Tropical Storm Arthur continues to impact regional weather conditions throughout the night and early morning hours.
Why This Matters
This tornado watch and severe weather alert directly affects residents and businesses in the New Orleans metro area and surrounding regions. Understanding the specific timeline, primary hazards (heavy rain and flooding), and guidance to enable emergency notifications through the WDSU mobile app enables residents to take protective action—downloading alerts, securing outdoor items, and preparing evacuation routes if necessary. The level 2 risk classification and isolated tornado potential mean this is not a routine weather event, making timely, accurate information critical for safety.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 18, 2026
WireTornado Watch issued for New Orleans Metro until 6 a.m. Thursday
Jun 18, 2026
WireLevel 2 slight risk of severe weather declared for southeast Louisiana and south Mississippi
Jun 19, 2026
WireNorthshore and south Mississippi expected to experience very wet and stormy weather
Jun 19, 2026
WireTornado Watch expires