Weather
New Orleans, LA Weather Update: 35 MPH Gusts Oct. 17
New Orleans, LA – A stretch of sunny, late season warmth will give way to stronger north winds Saturday, October 17, as gusts could reach 35 mph across New Orleans. The change could affect outdoor act
By Claire Benton · 2026-10-11T11:49:42.726Z
New Orleans, LA – A stretch of sunny, late season warmth will give way to stronger north winds Saturday, October 17, as gusts could reach 35 mph across New Orleans. The change could affect outdoor activities, waterfront locations and drivers operating larger vehicles.
According to the National Weather Service New Orleans/Baton Rouge office, Saturday's forecast calls for sustained north winds around 20 mph. Temperatures will reach approximately 77 degrees, about 10 degrees below the highs expected earlier in the week.
The stronger winds represent the most notable weather change in an otherwise dry forecast.
Sunny, Warm Weather Continues Through Midweek
Sunday, October 11, brings sunshine and a high near 86 degrees. Northwest winds remain light, around 5 mph.
Sunday night turns mostly cloudy before gradually clearing, with temperatures falling near 68 degrees.
Columbus Day, Monday, October 12, offers sunny skies and a high near 87 degrees, providing favorable conditions for outdoor holiday activities.
Tuesday and Wednesday remain sunny, with afternoon temperatures reaching approximately 87 degrees both days.
Overnight lows gradually increase from the upper 60s into the lower 70s.
Stronger Winds Arrive Saturday
Thursday, October 15, stays sunny, with temperatures near 86 degrees and generally light winds.
Friday brings another warm afternoon, reaching approximately 86 degrees.
However, northeast winds begin strengthening Friday night, shifting north and increasing to 15 to 20 mph after midnight.
By Saturday, sustained winds around 20 mph could produce gusts reaching 35 mph.
Drivers crossing exposed bridges and those operating high profile vehicles should remain attentive to changing wind conditions.
Residents should also secure lightweight outdoor decorations and furniture before stronger gusts arrive.
Five Day Outlook
The workweek remains predominantly sunny and dry, with highs in the middle to upper 80s.
Saturday brings the clearest shift toward cooler, breezier conditions.
No rain or thunderstorms appear in the supplied forecast through Saturday.
Residents should monitor updated forecasts as the weekend approaches.