Today, Saturday, February 22, 2025, is a big day across Louisiana. In particular, it's a big day for those who enjoy the spirit of Mardi Gras. In Lafayette, there are several important parades that are rolling this afternoon and evening. In Scott, that city is poised for a party today as well. By the way, kudos to the Scott Police for getting the word out about what "good" looks like.
I wish we were talking about what "good" looked like for today's weather forecast but the fact of the matter is this. It's not that bad. As suspected, based on trends in the weather models yesterday it does appear as though the threat of showers and storms in much of South Louisiana won't actually take place until much later this evening. And for a majority of the state, early Sunday morning.
The graphic above is from the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Lake Charles. It gives you a pretty good idea of when forecasters believe showers will start to affect your city or region.
In Lake Charles, the rain chances begin rising as early as 6 tonight. But in Lafayette just 100 miles east of the Texas line the rain chances are half those in Lake Charles and don't rise into the "likely" category until midnight.
The Scott Mardi Gras Parade which rolls at 11 this morning should not have any weather issues. We can't rule out a passing shower but that is very unlikely. The Krewe des Chien Parade, that's the dog parade is scheduled to roll at Noon in Lafayette. The weather should be good for that too. The temperatures this afternoon will be comfortable too. A light jacket, some jeans, maybe something to cover the ears from the breeze and I think you will be set.
There is also a parade set for this afternoon in Lake Arthur. The parade will roll at 3. Based on what the weather service is suggesting you should be dry for that event as well. However, the chance of a passing shower will increase so stick a poncho in your beadbag. It will be cool enough that getting wet and staying wet will make for an unpleasant experience.
That parade will have the highest probability of being interrupted by a shower but it won't be. The "Rio" parade rolls at 6:30 and while there is a forecast risk of showers for that period of time it's not a great risk. The parade should wrap up before 10 and the threat of rain doesn't increase for the Lafayette area until midnight. Carry a poncho or an umbrella and maybe think possibility of being "wet" when choosing your footwear.
Sunday will be a rainy day with showers and storms likely for at least the morning hours. Conditions will improve later in the day on Sunday. And we can't rule out several locations getting several inches of rain between late tonight and Sunday. The rainfall graphic from KATC.com and Breyanna Lewis suggests more of a soaking cold rain during the day on Sunday.
The outlook for next week seems to be rather calm and seasonable.