Severe Weather Forces Mardi Gras Parade Changes in New Orleans

High winds and thunderstorms lead to schedule adjustments and cancellations for Fat Tuesday festivities across Louisiana.

New Orleans' iconic Zulu and Rex parades started earlier with shortened routes and no marching bands or truck floats to avoid forecasted severe weather.
Jefferson Parish canceled all Fat Tuesday parades due to safety concerns over wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph, with rescheduling under consideration.
The National Weather Service warned of tornado threats, damaging winds, and heavy rain across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama throughout the day.
Officials emphasized public safety, urging parade-goers to avoid bringing umbrellas or tents, which could become hazardous in the high winds.
Despite the weather, thousands of revelers remain determined to celebrate, with enhanced security measures in place across New Orleans.