New Orleans/ Weather & Environment

Soak It In, NOLA, One Last Sunny Saturday Before Storms Slam City

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Published on August 29, 2026
Soak It In, NOLA, One Last Sunny Saturday Before Storms Slam CitySource: Google Street View

New Orleans is getting one more mostly sunny, hot Saturday before the forecast turns noticeably wetter. Skies were clear early Saturday, with temperatures around 82 degrees, and the city is headed for a high near 92 before settling to about 78 overnight.

Sunny Saturday Gives Way To Storms Sunday

Saturday's rain chance is just 3%, with light northeast winds around 5 mph. That makes the day the better bet for outdoor plans, although the heat and humidity will still make long stretches outside feel taxing.

Showers and thunderstorms become likely Sunday, especially after the morning, with a 60% chance of rain and possible rainfall between a tenth and quarter inch. The National Weather Service says storms may bring heavy downpours, frequent lightning and damaging wind gusts, while waterspouts or weak tornadoes cannot be ruled out.

Storm Chances Continue Through The Workweek

Monday also carries a 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms, with a high near 89 and a low around 77. Tuesday through Friday keep daily storm chances in the forecast, while daytime temperatures hover around 90 to 92 degrees and overnight lows remain in the upper 70s.

The pattern does not necessarily mean all-day rain, since several forecasts still call for mostly sunny periods between storms. For residents making plans, the practical takeaway is to favor Saturday for dry outdoor time and keep a backup plan ready from Sunday onward.

Heat Still Lingers Between Downpours

Even with more clouds and storms, it will remain hot across the New Orleans area. Forecasters say heat index values may still approach advisory levels next week before afternoon thunderstorms develop, so hydration, shade and quick breaks indoors will remain useful even on wetter days.