Louisianans are in for an extended stretch of dangerous heat and oppressive humidity this week, with conditions expected to remain miserable through at least Wednesday.
LSU Health climatologist Barry Keim summed up the forecast by saying, “We’re going to have heat on steroids this week.”
Keim says a strong area of high pressure parked over the Gulf of Mexico is driving the intense weather. The system acts like a pump, suppressing cloud development and preventing the rainfall that typically provides some relief from the summer heat.
With little cloud cover, the sun is free to heat the landscape throughout the day, sending afternoon temperatures into the mid- to upper 90s across much of the state. When combined with above-normal humidity, heat index values could climb well into the triple digits, possibly as high as 115-degrees.
Health officials urge residents to limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day whenever possible. Anyone who must be outside should drink plenty of water, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and watch for signs of heat-related illness such as dizziness, confusion, heavy sweating or nausea.
The prolonged heat serves as another reminder for Louisianans to check on elderly neighbors, young children and pets, all of whom are especially vulnerable during periods of extreme heat.
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