Jay Grymes notes there are likely inefficiencies within NOAA that could be addressed, but cautions that weakening core weather and climate roles could pose serious risks to Louisiana.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration houses key groups like the National Weather Service. Experts warn the consequences of employee cuts could be drastic.

The cuts of about 800 probationary employees at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration sliced deep into the agency tasked with a range of safety missions. Why it matters: The cuts spared "only some" specialists at its National Weather Service,

Mardi Gras is going to be a rough one weather-wise for the New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas, with the threat of dangerously high winds arriving early and thunderstorms in the afternoon, including the possibility of a few tornadoes and even hail, the National Weather Service says.

Strong storms are headed to Louisiana for Mardi Gras. The question is when will they arrive. The updated National Weather Service forecast reveals the timing.