LAPLACE — The National Weather Service and St. John the Baptist Parish are currently monitoring the tropical disturbance in the Bahamas forecast to move into the Gulf of Mexico and bring impacts to our area Tuesday into Wednesday.

The National Hurricane Center has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for all of SE LA and MS. Tropical storm conditions and heavy rainfall are possible over the central gulf coast Tuesday night and Wednesday as Potential Tropical Cyclone Seven moves toward the Gulf of Mexico.

Although the track and intensity are uncertain, there is now a 70% probability in the next 48 hours and 90% in the next 5 days for this wave to become at least a tropical depression. The main threat is heavy rainfall of 4 to 7 inches with higher amounts possible. Rainfall amounts could be higher depending on the development and track of the system.

Parish departments are monitoring the situation and in contact with the National Weather Service and Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness for updates. Preparations are being made Parish wide for severe weather.

Residents should also make preparations for extended rainfall by clearing out catch basins and storm drains at homes and businesses and clearing yard of debris. Please also monitor weather stations for changes and possible advisories. To register for Parish alerts, visit sjbparish.com and click “Stay Connected.”