NEW ORLEANS — Zulu and Rex will both roll early with no marching krewes, bands or truck floats in an effort to beat the high winds expected to hit the metro area on Fat Tuesday. The announcement comes as other parishes announced cancellations or earlier start times for parades. However, changes in weather could present new changes.
With high winds expected, officials evaluated potential changes and plan to announce a decision Monday. Jefferson Parish has already canceled its celebrations due to the forecasted conditions. Covington pushed up its start time.
On Monday, Orleans Parish officials moved parade start times of Zulu and Rex up by one hour, according to Darren Mire, spokesperson for Zulu.
In a news conference on Monday, the New Orleans Police Department said Zulu would roll at 6:30 a.m., Rex would roll at 9:30 a.m., and the Krewe of Elks truck parades would roll on Sunday. However, if the weather threat increased, the NOPD said it would consider cancelling the parades on Fat Tuesday.
NOPD Supt. Anne Kirkpatrick said that the streets are expected to be clear of parades by 11:30 a.m.
Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng confirmed in a press conference Monday that the parades will remain canceled for Mardi Gras Day as wind gusts pose a problem for double-decker floats, tents, ladders, and grandstands.
On the Northshore, Covington officials also shifted its carnival parade up. The new start time for Covington will be at 9:15 a.m.
The Krewe of Bogue Falaya will begin at 9:15 a.m., followed by the Krewe of Covington and Lions Club. The after party has been cancelled.
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