The second weekend of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is bringing a powerhouse lineup, but also a forecast that could have festivalgoers thinking strategically.
LSU Health Climatologist Barry Keim says a front moving through the region will bring scattered, and at times unpredictable, showers starting midweek and continuing into the weekend.
“Thursday and Friday will take the brunt of it,” Keim said. “We may not see a lot of sunshine those days.”
That means early arrivals could have the best chance to catch performances before showers develop later in the day. Fans planning to see artists like Widespread Panic or The Black Keys may need to be flexible or prepared to get a little wet.
Conditions begin to improve by Saturday.
“Saturday is better than Thursday and Friday,” Keim said. “We should see more breaks in the clouds.”
That could make for a smoother experience for fans heading out to see major acts like Eagles, Alabama Shakes, and T-Pain, with more opportunities to move between stages without interruption.
By Sunday, the forecast looks even more favorable.
“Sunday is the best day overall with very low rain chances and more sun” Keim said.
That sets the stage for a strong finish to the weekend, with performances from artists like Earth, Wind & Fire under more cooperative skies.
Keim says while heavy rain gear likely won’t be necessary, preparation is key.
“Bring a poncho or umbrella and something to keep you dry,” he said. “You’ll be able to wait out most of these showers.”
For festivalgoers, the takeaway is simple, you don’t have to miss the music. You just have to time it right.
