New Orleans is waking up to a sticky start, with cloudy skies, temperatures near 81°F and humidity already cranking the discomfort well above what the thermometer suggests. A Heat Advisory is in effect today, Friday, June 19, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. CDT, with forecasters calling for highs around 93°F and heat-index values pushing into the low 110s. There is a slight chance of spotty afternoon showers or a quick thunderstorm between about 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., and after last night’s heavy rain, low-lying streets may still be dealing with leftover water.
Afternoon Heat And Storm Chance
This afternoon should trend mostly sunny, and that sunshine will not be doing anyone any favors. A high near 93°F and southwest winds of about 5 to 10 mph are on tap, and the National Weather Service expects heat-index values to peak around 110 to 111°F. That kind of heat makes long stretches of outdoor work or strenuous exercise a bad idea. There is still a slight chance for scattered showers or a few fast-hitting thunderstorms mainly between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., though most of those would drop only small amounts of rain if they form. The better chance for showers and thunderstorms arrives tonight, especially after dark, as additional clusters of storms move in.
Overnight Flooding And Commute Notes
Several rounds of heavy rain overnight left many neighborhoods soaked and some streets with standing water. The Flood Watch that covered the early morning hours has ended, but saturated soils mean any new intense downpour could quickly trigger localized street flooding and bump up creek and bayou levels in a hurry. Drivers are urged to avoid flooded roadways, build in extra commute time, and remember the usual turn-around-don’t-drown advice. Out on the water, boaters should be ready for persistent onshore winds and 2 to 4 foot seas on Lake Pontchartrain and nearby coastal waters heading into the weekend.
Where To Cool Off And Safety Tips
For those without reliable air conditioning, the city’s NOLA Ready resources list public cooling centers, libraries and rec centers that open during significant heat events. Check the City of New Orleans for specific locations and hours. Staying safe in this kind of heat means drinking plenty of water, skipping strenuous outdoor activity during peak hours from roughly 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and checking on older neighbors or anyone dealing with chronic health conditions. For a bit of context on this soggy-then-scorching pattern, take a look at Hoodline’s earlier June 14 forecast. Keep an eye on local forecasts and alerts through the evening, and be ready to head indoors if the weather suddenly takes a turn.
