New Orleans is getting a rare autumn reset Monday: clear skies, a northeast breeze and a high near 74 degrees, with no rain in the forecast. The city will turn partly cloudy tonight, but the bigger story is a dry stretch that keeps the week bright and gradually warmer. By Friday, the high is expected to reach about 81.
Sunny Monday, Warmer Week Ahead
The National Weather Service says Tuesday should be sunny with a high near 78, followed by highs around 80 Wednesday and Thursday. Friday looks warmest in the immediate forecast at 81, while Saturday and Sunday settle back into the upper 70s. Overnight lows will stay comfortable, mostly 61 to 64 degrees in the city and nearby southshore.
Dry Air Raises Fire Concerns
There is no rain expected through at least Sunday, and the weather service says low humidity combined with drought and abnormally dry conditions will keep conditions favorable for the spread of any fires across much of the area. That is not a forecast of a fire, but it is a reason to be cautious with outdoor flames, grills and discarded cigarettes.
Coastal Waters Stay Rough
For boaters, a Small Craft Advisory remains in effect through 10 a.m. Tuesday across many coastal waters in southeastern Louisiana and Mississippi. Northeast to east winds will gradually ease through midweek, but open Gulf waters may remain choppy before conditions improve later in the week.
What To Expect By Sunday
Thursday through Sunday should remain mostly sunny, with light to moderate east or northeast winds and rain chances at zero or near zero. Sunday’s rain chance is only 1%, so outdoor plans look favorable on land, though Saturday and Sunday will bring stronger east winds around 10 to 15 mph and occasional gusts up to 25 mph Saturday night.
