New Orleans began Monday as the heat was set to build quickly. The high should reach the mid-90s, with the heat index climbing as high as 106 and a small chance of a shower or thunderstorm late in the afternoon.
The National Weather Service says the best chance for a passing shower or storm Monday is in the afternoon and early evening, with rain chances ranging from 20% to 40%. Any rainfall should be brief, and less than a tenth of an inch is expected in spots.
Tuesday Stays Hot And Mostly Sunny
Monday night should be mostly clear, with temperatures settling near 78 degrees. Tuesday looks like the driest day of the week, with sunny skies, a high near 92, and another heat index near 106.
Midweek Rain Brings A Break From The Heat
The forecast turns noticeably wetter Wednesday, when a chance of showers is possible before 10 a.m., followed by a chance of showers and thunderstorms between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m.; sunny conditions are expected afterward. Rain chances are about 30% to 40%, with easterly winds expected to strengthen, reaching at least 20 to 25 knots over the waters; the high should be closer to 87 degrees.
Thursday and Friday look somewhat cooler, though midweek heat may linger into Friday. Storm chances increase again Saturday and Sunday, when scattered showers and thunderstorms could interrupt outdoor plans even though the weekend is not expected to be a complete washout.
With heat indexes above 100 degrees Monday and Tuesday, people spending time outdoors should take breaks, drink water and avoid lingering in the afternoon sun. No watches or warnings were listed for the New Orleans area Monday morning.
