Storm Alert Hits Louisiana and Mississippi

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for parts of southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi as a powerful storm system rolls through the area. A tornado watch signals that conditions could allow tornadoes to form, though none have been spotted yet. Earlier this evening, local officials warned that heavy rain could lead to street flooding overnight. To help residents move cars safely, the restriction on parking in neutral ground was temporarily removed from 6 a. m. to 8 a. m.Because of the threat, the weather service also released a tornado warning for communities near Morganza, Innis and Batchelor—about 30 miles northwest of Baton Rouge. This warning will remain active until about 7:45 p. m. Residents are urged to stay alert for any severe weather updates and keep emergency supplies ready. Even though a tornado has not been seen, the conditions are ripe for one to develop if the storm intensifies.