New Orleans woke up mostly cloudy and windy on Wednesday, July 22, with temperatures sitting in the low 80s and a high near 93°F on tap. The city is staring down a two-for-one weather hit today: an Extreme Heat Warning through the evening combined with the approach of Tropical Storm Bertha, bringing dangerous heat, gusty winds and a chance for brief storms. The most punishing heat is expected this afternoon, so plan anything outdoors with that in mind.
Afternoon Heat And Gusts
By mid-to-late afternoon, temperatures are expected to climb into the low-to-mid 90s, with heat-index values in many neighborhoods pushing 110–115°F. The National Weather Service has an Extreme Heat Warning in place from 10 AM to 8 PM CDT. North winds of 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph, will not offer much relief and could send lightweight outdoor items tumbling. A chance of showers and thunderstorms develops after about 11 AM; any storm could produce brief heavy rain, although most locations are expected to see only modest rainfall totals.
Coastal Risks From Bertha
Tropical Storm Bertha is tracking west across the northern Gulf and is forecast to run along or near the southeast Louisiana coast. That path is expected to bring tropical-storm-force gusts to some coastal parishes and kick up higher surf along the shoreline. Coastal Flood Advisories and Coastal Flood Warnings are posted for portions of the coast through early Thursday, with localized inundation and ponding on roads possible near waterfront streets.
Commute And Event Impacts
Drivers can expect gusty crosswinds on elevated roadways and bridges, which could make travel tricky at times. Scattered downed limbs may lead to brief power outages and travel delays. Any quick-hitting downpour could cause rapid ponding at low-lying underpasses and shoreline roads, so build in extra travel time and do not attempt to drive through flooded streets.
Heat Safety And Cooling Options
With the afternoon heat reaching dangerous levels, frequent breaks, steady water intake, and avoiding strenuous outdoor work between 10 AM and 8 PM are strongly advised. The City maintains a Heat Relief Map that lists cooling centers, libraries, and pools open to the public. You can find nearby air-conditioned options through NOLA Ready. If you look after someone elderly or anyone without reliable cooling, consider getting them to a public cooling site early in the afternoon, before conditions peak.
What To Watch
Bertha’s track could still shift, which means the local impacts may change as the day goes on. Keep an eye on updates from the National Weather Service and local officials through the evening, and be prepared to shelter from strong winds or coastal flooding if conditions deteriorate. Warnings and advisories will be adjusted as needed, so check weather.gov or local emergency channels before heading out.
