New Orleans is starting Tuesday warm, with temperatures building through a sunny afternoon into the mid-90s. The bigger concern will be the humidity, with heat index values reaching as high as 106 and only a slim chance of a pop-up shower.
Tuesday Brings Sun And Serious Heat
The National Weather Service expects mostly sunny skies through the day, with southerly surface winds over land. Rain chances remain low, but anyone spending time outside should plan for water, shade and regular breaks as the afternoon heat builds, according to the National Weather Service.
Wednesday Storms Arrive Before A Drier Turn
Wednesday morning rain chances are expected mainly over marine areas, while scattered storms over land are forecast from around midday through the evening. Over marine areas, easterly winds of 15 to 25 knots with gusts up to 30 knots are expected, while stronger storms could still produce lightning and sharper wind bursts.
After that front moves through, Thursday should be much drier, with highs in the upper 80s to low 90s, followed by another drier and more comfortable day Friday with highs in the upper 80s. The shift should also bring lower humidity and more comfortable conditions than the recent stretch of heat and storms detailed in Hoodline’s earlier forecast.
Weekend Rain Chances Return
Saturday has a 30-to-50-percent precipitation chance, with weekend highs generally from 90 to 95 degrees. Rain chances increase Sunday and Monday, when scattered showers and thunderstorms could develop during the daytime while highs remain close to 90.
Boaters should also keep an eye on conditions later Wednesday into Thursday, when stronger easterly winds are expected over the coastal waters and a Small Craft Advisory is scheduled to be in effect. For city residents, the practical forecast is straightforward: take the heat seriously Tuesday, keep an indoor backup plan for Wednesday storms and enjoy the drier break Thursday and Friday.
