Rainy for Mardi Gras This Evening
Krewe du Vieux parades down Frenchmen St. celebrating the Mardi Gras season in New Orleans, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2012. The parade is one of the earliest parades of the Mardi Gras season and is known for its satirical themes.(AP Photo/Jonathan Bachman)
With "Fat Tuesday" approaching, Mardi Gras is in full swing in New Orleans. Violent storms hitting the area today could put a damper on outdoor activities.
"They'll have rain basically any time today. It could be very heavy at times, with strong to severe thunderstorms crashing through Bourbon Street through the late afternoon and evening hours," AccuWeather Expert Senior Meteorologist Dan Kottlowski said. "Looks like the rain should come to an end later tonight. Sunday looks like it will be cool and dry."
According to www.MardiGrasNewOrleans.com, in case of bad weather parades still "roll in light rain." Festival officials only postpone events if the weather gets severe. They announce any postponements or cancellations through local radio and television stations.
While today may be damp and dreary, the weather should clear up for the last few days of Mardi Gras.
"It looks like great weather for early next week for the rest of Mardi Gras," said Kottlowski. "I think things should be very good through Tuesday."
The Muses Mardi Gras Parade rools through the streets of New Orleans, Thursday, Feb. 16, 2012 helping to celebrate the Carnival season. (AP Photo/Bill Haber)
Attendees should also be aware of strong winds moving through New Orleans tonight, and they are advised to dress accordingly.
"There will be leftover showers through the end of tonight. It will also be quite windy after the rain ends," said Kottlowski. "Winds will drop off Sunday, though it will still be breezy. But yes, generally dry weather for the rest of Mardi Gras."
For more information and a schedule of Mardi Gras events, please consult MardiGrasNewOrleans.com.
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