-- Update --
The parade roll time has been changed to 1 p.m. (2 hours earlier than originally planned, due to storms forecasted for later in the day).
-- Original article --
SHREVEPORT, La. - Krewe of Gemini officials and Shreveport city leaders say Saturday's parade is still set to roll, but possible storms could force a schedule change.
The parade is currently set to start at 3 p.m. but concerns about storms moving into the area in the early evening have prompted discussions about moving the parade to an earlier time on Saturday.
"What I hope is they can reach an accommodation that will allow the parade to roll on Saturday," said Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux.
Krewe of Gemini Captain Cole Guthrie said organizers are closely monitoring weather forecasts and working with the National Weather Service to make the best decision possible.
"We have a number of professionals watching the weather, the forecast and all the models so we can make the best decision possible related to safety for our Krewe as well as anyone that plans to attend our parade this weekend," said Guthrie.
Arceneaux says lightning and strong winds are a main concern. His team has proposed moving the parade to 1 p.m. to give parade goers a better chance to avoid the storm.
"It looks like the front is moving a little more slowly than they thought, so it may arrive later in the day. That would give the parade a chance to happen and everyone a chance to get back to their cars safely. The work of the parade is not over just because the parade is over," said Arceneaux.
According to Arceneaux, rescheduling the parade to a different date would be difficult due to the large number of security personnel and logistical coordination required.
"We've looked at some of those options, they create a tremendous logistical problem for us. That's a lot of moving parts for us to get together on short notice on another date," said Arceneaux.
Despite the uncertainty, the Krewe of Gemini says members are ready to roll, rain or shine.
"They are more than excited regardless of the weather. I've had some of my best rides in the rain, and I know there are a lot of die-hards in this community that support these krewes that will be out there in full force," said Guthrie.
The Krewe of Gemini is scheduled to meet with city officials and National Weather Service meteorologists Thursday at 9 a.m. to finalize plans for the parade weekend.