El Niño Could Bring a Stormier Gulf Coast Setup Late Fall-Winter
Spring may get the most attention for severe weather, but fall can bring dangerous storms to Louisiana and the Deep South, too. In fact, Louisiana has historically averaged more tornadoes in November than in each individual summer month.
As cooler air moves south during the fall, it can meet warm, humid air from the Gulf. At the same time, stronger winds higher in the atmosphere can help thunderstorms organize, creating the potential for damaging winds, hail and tornadoes.
This winter, a strong El Niño could add another ingredient to the overall weather pattern. El Niño often strengthens the southern jet stream, helping steer more storm systems across the Gulf Coast. Those systems can tap into Gulf moisture, increasing the chances of rain and, at times, flooding.
Some of those systems could also bring severe weather if the right ingredients come together. A wetter winter doesn’t guarantee more tornadoes, but it does mean we’ll want to keep a close eye on the forecast. Historically, Louisiana averages more tornadoes during El Nino winter seasons.
Now is a good time to review your severe weather plan and make sure you have multiple ways to receive warnings, including one that will wake you overnight.
READ MORE:Strong El Niño Could Bring a Stormier Gulf Coast Late Fall-Winter
