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

Powerful storms bearing a threat of tornadoes are expected to punch through Louisiana and other parts of the South on Tuesday.

Jefferson Parish officials are canceling Mardi Gras Day parades because they are worried strong winds could flip floats, send tents flying and create other unsafe conditions. Why it matters: It's the first time the holiday's parades have been canceled in recent memory,