NATCHITOCHES, La. (KTAL/KMSS)—Heavy rainfall across Northern Louisiana led to the issuance of flash flood warnings and resulted in significant storm damage. According to the Shreveport National Weather Service, the flash flood warning for Natchitoches Parish commenced at 9:23 a.m. and remained effective until 12:30 p.m. on March 15, 2025. Thunderstorms swept through the area with recorded wind speeds reaching 55 mph.
On March 14, Natchitoches Parish Police reported substantial storm damage to the 1900 block of Fish Hatchery Road. “The 100×200 farm shop building owned by R. Stacy received heavy damage,” reported the police department, indicating the building's state after the storm. Power lines were also reported down, prompting concerns for local residents.
The National Weather Service’s Shreveport office announced, “If you are traveling through the area, slow your speed, avoid distractions and pay attention to the road. There may be a delay,” as the Sheriff’s Office reported traffic incidents resulting from the storm. At around 10:00 a.m., two motor vehicles were involved in a crash on I-49 southbound near milepost 140, just north of Natchitoches. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries.
The following locations were particularly susceptible to flash flooding: Natchitoches, Campti, Montgomery, Provencal, Natchez, Clarence, Robeline, and Atlanta among others according to the alert. Residents were reminded, “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads.”
Meanwhile, the situation escalated outside the capital. A flash flood warning was also issued for East Baton Rouge Parish and portions of West Baton Rouge Parish until 4:15 p.m., again on March 15. The NWS reported thunderstorms producing heavy rain, leading to expectations of flooding across small creeks, streams, and highways.
Waterlogged areas including Baton Rouge, Baker, and Port Allen were under watch, with Interstate 10 between mile markers 153 to 161 and parts of Interstate 12 facing severe flooding threats. The National Weather Service indicated “two inches of rain have already fallen, and another inch is expected.” Local authorities advised drivers to avoid flooded streets, as most flood-related deaths occur within vehicles during such incidents.
Shifting to Mississippi, the National Weather Service issued warnings at 3:18 p.m. for several counties within the Pine Belt, including Covington County, Jasper County, and Jones County. Rainfall of 1 to 3 inches had already been documented, with forecasts indicating additional rainfall amounts of the same magnitude possible. “Flash flooding is occurring or expected to begin shortly,” stated the NWS, underscoring the urgency for residents to heed warnings.
Conditions are expected to persist throughout the day, prompting renewed caution among residents and travelers across the affected regions. The National Weather Service continues to monitor the storm systems and provide updates on weather conditions.
Local communities are encouraged to stay updated through weather apps and alerts to avoid dangerous situations as they navigate the storm aftermath. This week, as thunderstorms sweep across Louisiana and Mississippi, communities must stay vigilant and prioritize safety above all else.