KPLC's Wade Hampton reports that strong to severe thunderstorms are possible Thursday across Southwest Louisiana. Some storms could produce damaging winds and tornadoes.

The storms may begin as early as late morning and then become more numerous into the early afternoon. The threat of severe weather will come to an end by the evening hours.

Stay tuned to KPLC for further updates on any potential watches or warnings that may be issued by the National Weather Service on Thursday.

The following is a Press Release regarding Hurricane Season:

Governor Bobby Jindal has proclaimed May 27- June 2 Hurricane Preparedness Week. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) is encouraging every Louisiana citizen to begin preparing for the 2012 Hurricane Season.

“We’ve already seen some tropical activity and hurricane season hasn’t officially started yet. Regardless of predictions on how active hurricane season will be, it only takes one bad storm to disrupt the lives of our citizens. GOHSEP urges everyone to get a game plan and be ready now for any and all hazards,” said GOHSEP Director Kevin Davis.

The following is a Press Release:

Louisiana residents can stock up on flashlights, batteries, generators, and other storm-related items free of the 4 percent state sales tax during the 2012 Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday on Saturday, May 26 and Sunday, May 27.  The 2012 Atlantic Hurricane Season begins June 1.

“This is the perfect opportunity to begin the preparations that can help to keep your loved ones and property safe, secure and comfortable during hurricane season,” Secretary of Revenue Cynthia Bridges said.  “I encourage everyone to get ready now.  Don’t wait until there’s a storm bearing down on us or, worse, after one has already struck.”

The sales tax holiday exempts the first $1500 of the purchase price of each of the following eligible items: