Heavy rain continues to fall across southwest Louisiana, with significant flooding risk expected through Saturday night. A tropical disturbance is driving moist air over the Gulf Coast, fueling rounds of showers and thunderstorms. The National Weather Service in Lake Charles warns that the rain could lead to localized flash flooding, especially in areas that have already seen substantial rainfall this week.
The greatest flooding risk is in parishes along and south of I-10, including Lake Charles, Jennings, Lafayette, and Cameron. Most areas are expected to see 1 to 3 inches of rain, but some regions—particularly near Beaumont, Orange, and other southern parishes—could receive up to 6 to 8 inches by late Saturday. The heaviest rainfall is expected to trigger rapid rises in creeks, street flooding, and hazardous driving conditions, especially on major roads like US-90 and Highway 165. Some storms will produce intense rainfall rates, which increase the likelihood of flash flooding in poorly-drained areas or locations that already saw heavy rainfall on Thursday and Friday.
Residents are advised to avoid non-essential travel during periods of heavy rain, ensure their devices are fully charged in case of power outages, and move vehicles to higher ground if flash flood warnings are issued. Local officials urge everyone to stay aware of the weather and monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local authorities. The rain chances will decrease by Saturday night as the disturbance moves out of the area, but localized flooding could continue in the hardest-hit areas. Additional advisories may be issued if rainfall rates intensify.
Five-Day Forecast for Lake Charles, LA
Thursday will see heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms, with 1–2 inches of rain possible and a flash flooding risk in low-lying areas. On Friday, periods of showers and isolated downpours will add another 1–2 inches of rain, keeping flooding concerns high. Saturday will bring showers and potentially heavy rain early in the day, with some isolated spots seeing totals of up to 6–8 inches. Flash flooding will remain possible into the evening. By Sunday, the rain will taper off, with scattered showers and cloudy skies. Highs will be in the mid-80s, and floodwaters will begin to recede. Monday will bring partly cloudy skies and lower rain chances, with highs in the upper 80s. Some localized standing water may persist in flood-prone areas.
