New Orleans is starting Sunday clear, muggy and already in the mid-80s, but the city is headed for a punishing afternoon. Temperatures will climb to about 98 degrees, while humidity pushes the heat index as high as 110 to 113. A few thunderstorms may interrupt the heat later, but rain will not be widespread enough to offer much relief.
Heat Advisory Covers Sunday Afternoon
A Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday across southeast Louisiana, including New Orleans, according to the National Weather Service. The main concern is the combination of high temperatures and heavy humidity, with light northwest winds around 5 mph doing little to cool things down.
The thermometer should reach the upper 80s by late morning and the low to mid-90s around midday, with the hottest stretch expected during the midafternoon. Anyone with outdoor plans should shift strenuous activity toward early morning or evening, and keep water and access to shade or air conditioning close by.
Storms Could Pop After 2 p.m.
There is a 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m. Sunday, continuing into the early evening. Most neighborhoods may stay dry, but any storm that forms could bring frequent lightning, brief heavy rain and gusty winds, with a few storms potentially becoming strong to severe.
The National Weather Service advises people to head indoors when thunder is heard, even if the storm has not yet arrived. Showers and storms should fade after sunset, but the night will remain oppressive, with a low near 81 and heat-index values still reaching about 107.
Rain Chances Rise As Heat Slowly Backs Off
Monday brings a slightly lower high near 95, but the heat index could still reach 109 and the chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms rises to 50%. Storm chances increase further Tuesday, when thunderstorms are likely and the high reaches about 93, followed by another 50% chance Wednesday.
By Thursday and Friday, highs ease toward 91 and 90 degrees while showers and thunderstorms become likely, with rain chances around 70%. The wetter turn is a notable shift from an earlier Hoodline forecast that described a mostly dry stretch through Monday.
Heat Safety Remains The Main Story
Drink plenty of fluids, wear lightweight clothing and take regular breaks in shade or air conditioning Sunday. Check on older neighbors, young children and anyone with health conditions, and avoid leaving people or pets in parked vehicles during the afternoon heat.
