Lake Charles, Louisiana – A rare high risk for flooding has been issued for Southwest Louisiana. The National Weather Service has warned that thunderstorms with high rainfall rates will pose a significant risk for flash flooding across the region, particularly in Calcasieu, Beauregard, Allen, Evangeline, Vernon, and Rapides parishes. According to forecasters, there is a 70% chance of flash flooding within a 25-mile radius of any location in these parishes.
Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution when traveling and to avoid flooded roadways. If a vehicle becomes stalled in floodwaters, drivers are urged to abandon the vehicle and seek higher ground.
Low-lying areas near rivers, bayous, creeks, and streams are particularly vulnerable to flooding, especially if repeated or training thunderstorms occur. The region’s topography, with its numerous waterways and low-lying areas, makes it prone to flooding.
The heavy rainfall is attributed to the moisture from what is now Tropical Storm Rafael after weakening in the Gulf of Mexico. This is turning the storm into a decoupled low-pressure system that is expected to become a remnant low soon. This moisture will likely pool along a stalled front, leading to enhanced bands of heavy rain. A window of 8-12 inches of rain is expected to fall from around Lake Charles to Lafayette and then northward to Alexandria, posing a significant threat to the region.
Residents are advised to stay aware of the weather situation, as the potential for flash flooding is high. The slow-moving nature of the storms will have the potential to produce a general 1-5 inches of rain, with some local hotspots possibly receiving up to 10 inches. Unfortunately, it is impossible to predict exactly which locations will be affected, making it essential for residents to stay aware of the weather, especially later in the day when flash flooding chances increase.
Some areas, such as Vernon Parish, have already received an estimated 3-5 inches of rain, with more expected to come. As the situation unfolds, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.