New Orleans wakes up to clear skies and muggy low 60s today. A stray shower could sneak through before 7 a.m., but skies are expected to brighten and temperatures will climb into the mid 70s this afternoon. By later in the day, west winds will crank up, turning a pleasant morning into a breezy afternoon before a more serious threat rolls in overnight.
Afternoon Winds Pick Up
Today’s high will be near 74°F, with west winds of 10 to 15 mph shifting to the northwest and gusting near 30 mph, according to the National Weather Service. There is only a slight chance of a morning shower, followed by mostly sunny conditions. Boaters and anyone heading out on the water should use caution, since seas and winds will stay elevated.
Severe Risk Tonight
The tone changes after dark. "Severe weather increasingly likely tonight. Main threats will be damaging winds (60+mph) and lightning. An embedded tornado or two cannot be ruled out," according to the National Weather Service. If you have evening plans, know in advance where you would take shelter and make sure you have a reliable way to receive alerts.
How To Prepare
Secure loose outdoor items, bring pets and grills indoors, and charge phones so you can receive warnings if storms develop. Coastal residents and recreational boaters should avoid heading out, as small craft conditions are expected through the evening. For background on the fog and earlier watches, see New Orleans chokes on fog report by Hoodline. Keep weather radios or phone alerts on and follow official updates.
