It’s the middle of August in Louisiana and that means oppressive heat is in full swing right now. Tyler Stanfield, meteorologist with the National Weather Service, says this August heat shows no signs of letting up in the short-term. “It’s going to be pretty toasty this weekend and we expect heat indexes to reach into the hundred-teens in some places,” Stanfield notes.
While the region is no stranger to brutal summer temperatures, Stanfield says projected temperatures are remarkable even for the Gulf South. "We'll be approaching some records, especially on Sunday. We're getting to near 100 degrees in some spots, which is definitely very very hot for this time of year," adds Stanfield.Stanfield says a strong area of high pressure is dominating the southeastern portion of the United States over the next few days, especially centered over the Gulf Coast. That's tamping down any chances of afternoon storms that might help to cool the region and should further drive up the already oppressive temperatures.
Residents who are dealing with the steamy summer temperatures are urged to take frequent breaks indoors or in the shade, to stay hydrated, and to check in on loved ones who may be at higher risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke (such as the elderly).
No short-term relief for soaring temperatures in sight
No short-term relief for soaring temperatures in sight
