LAPLACE — The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch until 6 p.m. today for St. John the Baptist Parish and surrounding parishes as a cold front moves across the region.

The main threats from the severe weather will be damaging wind, large hail and isolated tornadoes.

Rainfall amounts of one to two inches with locally higher amounts are also predicted. The severe weather risk is expected to diminish after midnight.

Public Works and Utilities crews are on call in the event issues arise with drainage and utility systems. Residents are asked to use caution when venturing outdoors and dial 9-1-1 to report any issues or concerns.

Residents can sign up to receive emergency notifications to their home phones, cell phones, emails or SMS text messaging devices by visiting the homepage of the Parish’s website at sjbparish.com and clicking on “Stay Connected.”