Radar estimated over 20-30 inches of rain fell over Louisiana in 48 hours, leading to devastating flooding. What caused the torrential amounts of rain?
The weather feature was an "inland sheared tropical depression." The National Weather Service says the moisture in the system was at an all time record level.
High amounts of moisture was drawn into the system from the Gulf of Mexico and the northwestern Atlantic Ocean. The combination of the of the tropical moisture and the area of low pressure led to several inches of rain falling every hour.
The amount of precipitation in Louisiana is extremely rare, with a likelihood of happening every 1,000 years. The area saw as much rain in one day as they usually do during hurricane season.
Flood Warnings remain in effect in the Baton Rouge area through Friday morning.
