United States: Heavy rain, possible flooding as Cindy weakens to tropical depression June 22 /update 2

Event

The United States National Hurricane Center downgraded Tropical Storm Cindy to a tropical depression on Thursday, June 22, but the threat of heavy rain and flooding remains in the US Gulf Coast region. The storm made landfall in the early morning of June 22 near Lake Charles, Louisiana, and at 10:00 (local time) was moving north at around 20 km/h (13 mph) with wind speeds up to 56 km/h (35 mph). Heavy rain is expected on June 22 in Alabama, East Texas, and northwest Florida. Tornado watches remain in effect in New Orleans, central Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. Rain accumulations are expected to total 8-15 cm (3-6 in) in the region, with some areas getting up to 38 cm (15 in), which could cause dangerous flooding.

Context

Tropical storms and hurricanes are common in the Gulf region during the yearly Atlantic Hurricane Season, which runs from June 1 to November 30.

Advice

Individuals in the above areas are advised to follow local weather forecasts, to adhere to any advice issued by regional authorities (e.g. potential evacuation orders), and to confirm travel plans. In the event of flooding, keep in mind that driving or walking through running water can be dangerous - 15 cm (6 in) of running water is enough to knock over an adult.