New Orleans woke up to a postcard-perfect Friday, with clear skies, mild morning temps in the 60s and a high near 72°F on tap. Light east winds around 5 mph and mostly sunny skies will keep things comfortable through the afternoon, before readings slide into the mid-50s overnight. By the weekend, though, the city trades in the spring vibe for something closer to summer as the heat builds ahead of a punchy cold front, as reported by the National Weather Service.
Weekend Warm-Up
Highs should climb to about 77°F on Saturday and around 82°F on Sunday, March 15, as southerly winds tug Gulf moisture north into the metro area. That warmer, stickier air will prime the atmosphere for storms once a strong cold front noses in Sunday night into Monday, March 16.
Showers are expected to get going late Sunday evening, with an 80% chance of rain overnight. The main window for organized storms runs roughly from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., when a line of thunderstorms could sweep through. That line may pack damaging straight-line winds and brief tornadoes, with the greatest threat north of I-10, according to the National Weather Service.
Afternoon And Tonight
For now, today stays pleasant and largely dry - a solid setup for outdoor plans - with east winds near 5 mph and a nighttime low around 56°F. Skies should remain mostly clear tonight before clouds start to thicken Saturday night.
If you are banking on Sunday evening plans, factor in the incoming front. Humidity will climb ahead of the storms, and having an umbrella or rain jacket handy will be smarter than trying to outrun the line.
Marine And Monday Chill
On the water, the timeline is tighter. Boaters will want to be off the Gulf by Sunday night. Ahead of the front, winds are expected to ramp up to 20 to 25 mph, then swing northwest to 30 to 35 mph with higher gusts once the front passes. Seas are forecast to build over 10 feet, creating hazardous conditions from Sunday night into Monday. Gale conditions are likely across coastal waters, and nonessential offshore trips are not advised.
Behind the front, Monday, March 16 turns sharply cooler, with highs near 58°F. By Monday night, temperatures drop into the 30s north of I-10, and a light freeze is possible along and north of the I-10/12 corridor, per the National Weather Service.
What To Do
If your weekend revolves around outdoor plans late Sunday, consider bumping them earlier or lining up a backup indoor spot. Secure loose outdoor furniture, tie down or stow boats, and plan for slower travel if you need to be out Sunday night or early Monday.
Keep an eye on local forecasts and alerts, and be ready to move to a safe interior room if severe weather warnings are issued. The warm-up may feel like an early taste of summer, but the atmosphere has a very real cold front waiting in the wings.
