New Orleans rolled into Tuesday, June 23, 2026, already sweating. Skies were mostly clear at daybreak and temperatures were stuck in the upper 70s to low 80s, with humidity doing its usual heavy lifting. The National Weather Service has a Heat Advisory in place for parts of the metro from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., with highs expected near 93°F and heat index readings projected to land in the 105 to 110°F range. If you are planning to be outside, try to schedule activities for early morning or later in the evening and keep water close at hand.
Heat Advisory Details
The advisory is keyed in on areas near Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas, where lingering moisture and light west winds will crank up the discomfort. Forecasts call for west winds around 5 mph and only a slight chance of showers, with any new rainfall totals staying under one tenth of an inch, which means the heat risk will not be easing up during peak hours. According to the National Weather Service New Orleans/Baton Rouge, the heat index could top 110°F in the hottest spots.
Afternoon Timing And Storm Chance
Temperatures should push into the low 90s by early afternoon, with the most intense heat expected from roughly 1 to 4 p.m. A frontal boundary parked to the north will keep most thunderstorms away from the city, although a few isolated afternoon storms remain possible. Any storm that does pop up could bring brief heavy rain and reduced visibility, along with strong gusts in outlying areas, but should not stick around for long. If you have outdoor plans late in the day, keep an eye on radar just in case one drifts through.
Where To Cool Off
For residents without reliable air conditioning, the city maintains a NOLA Ready Heat Relief Map and activates cooling centers and hydration stations during heat events. Public libraries and several recreation centers often double as free places to cool down. Two of the more frequently used spots are Rosenwald Recreation Center (1120 S. Broad St.) and Joe W. Brown Park/Rec Center (5601 Read Blvd.). Call 311 or check the city map for current hours and which locations are open. Visit NOLA Ready for locations and additional guidance.
Quick Safety Tips
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid heavy exertion between about 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., and check in on older neighbors and anyone with medical conditions who might struggle in the heat. Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including fainting, heavy sweating, dizziness, or confusion. If someone shows these symptoms, move them to a cooler place right away and seek medical help immediately.
