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

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,