New Orleans is waking up to mostly clear skies and temperatures around 82°F Sunday morning, but the calm start will not last. Highs should reach near 91°F before showers and thunderstorms become possible after 11 a.m., with the heat index climbing to around 105°F.
Afternoon Storms Could Hit Low-Lying Streets
The rain chance rises through midday, peaking near 40% overall during the afternoon. Storms will be hit-or-miss and slow-moving, and a few could bring lightning, brief heavy downpours, and sudden gusts that cause localized flooding in poorly drained or low-lying areas.
Forecast winds are expected to stay light at 0 to 5 mph, generally from the east. The National Weather Service says heat-index values may reach around 105°F each day, although they are currently expected to remain just below hazardous levels; no watches or warnings are posted for the area.
Stormier Monday, Drier By The Weekend
Monday looks like the wettest day in the near-term forecast, with showers and thunderstorms likely after 7 a.m., a high near 90°F, and a 60% chance of rain. Tuesday and Wednesday stay hot near 91°F and 92°F, with daily storm chances around 40%.
Rain chances taper Thursday, then fall to around 10% Friday and 8% Saturday as sunshine takes over. Highs rise to about 93°F Thursday and 94°F Friday and Saturday, while overnight lows remain stuck in the upper 70s.
For Sunday plans, early morning is the better window for outdoor time before storms become more likely late morning and afternoon. If thunder arrives, head indoors, since a quick summer shower can turn into street ponding in a hurry.
