"Severe Weather Threat Alters Mardi Gras Parade Schedules in Texas and New Orleans"

A storm system is expected to bring severe weather to Texas on Friday, with the potential for damaging wind gusts, large hail, and isolated tornadoes. The system will also bring heavy rains to the Gulf Coast, prompting adjustments to Mardi Gras parade schedules in New Orleans. Parts of Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi are at risk for excessive rainfall and flooding, with some areas predicted to receive 3-4 inches of rain. The active El Niño pattern is contributing to the heavy rainfall events, and more precipitation is expected to impact the Gulf Coast in the coming days.