"Severe Storms Cause Flash Flooding and Power Rationing in New Orleans"

New Orleans experienced widespread flooding and road closures due to a Flash Flood Emergency caused by strong storms. The rain has moved out of the area, but it may take several hours for water to drain from the streets. NOLAReady has lifted parking restrictions, allowing neutral ground parking until 8 p.m. Wednesday. Widespread damage was reported from a tornado in Slidell, and the St. Tammany Parish president signed an emergency declaration after the storm.