Thousands of revelers in outlandish costumes will fill the streets of New Orleans as the city celebrates Mardi Gras Day.

The threat of severe weather has left New Orleans Mardi Gras traditions at risk, with parades being shortened or canceled, warnings issued over flying debris and officials urging extreme caution

Powerful storms with a threat of tornadoes are expected to punch through Louisiana and other parts of the South on Tuesday just as costumed revelers celebrate Mardi Gras with huge parades and partying in the streets of New Orleans and other cities in the region.