A tornado WATCH has been issued for the western half of Acadiana this morning and will be in effect until 11am. A strong line of storms will continue pushing eastward out of Texas into Louisiana during the day. This line of storms will also bring heavy rain at times with up to three inches possible over parts of the region. Winds will continue gusting out of the south at 20-30 mph. Highs will reach the lower 70s.
As the front pushes eastward, storms are expected to enter the western sections of Louisiana near daybreak, then continue through Acadiana during the morning hours. The timing puts the line of storms near Lake Charles around 7-9am, then eastward to Lafayette late in the morning. Strong winds will accompany these storms with heavy rain. Isolated tornadoes are possible. Storms should exit the region during the afternoon, leaving the area with gray skies and showers.
For Friday, the front will edge eastward. This should leave us with cloudy skies and a few showers. Temperatures will be slightly cooler. Rains are expected to return over the weekend, and should continue on and off through New Year’s Eve.