Lake Charles, Louisiana – Oppressive heat will intensify across southwest Louisiana and southeast Texas this week, with dangerous heat index values climbing as high as 114 degrees and little chance for cooling rain until next weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, an upper-level ridge will strengthen over the region through the middle of the week, bringing soaring temperatures and increasing humidity. Afternoon highs will range from the lower 90s to upper 90s, with many communities approaching 99 degrees by midweek. Heat index values are expected to reach 103 to 109 degrees Monday, 104 to 112 degrees Tuesday, 105 to 114 degrees Wednesday, and 106 to 112 degrees Thursday.
The highest heat risk is expected Tuesday through Thursday, when much of southwest Louisiana and southeast Texas will experience Major (Level 3 of 4) to Extreme (Level 4 of 4) HeatRisk. Communities including Lake Charles, Lafayette, Alexandria, Beaumont and Jasper could experience dangerous conditions capable of affecting anyone without adequate cooling or hydration, especially older adults, young children, outdoor workers and those with underlying health conditions.
Rain chances remain minimal through most of the workweek, generally near 0% to 5%, allowing the heat to build day after day. A slight pattern change is expected by next weekend, increasing the potential for scattered showers and slightly cooler temperatures.
Residents should drink plenty of water, replace electrolytes when spending time outdoors, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the afternoon and never leave children or pets unattended inside vehicles. Additional heat advisories or warnings may be issued if temperatures or humidity exceed current forecasts.
Five-Day Forecast for Lake Charles, Louisiana
- Sunday: High 91–97°, Low 76–80°. 10–20% chance of rain. Heat index 102–107°.
- Monday: High 92–98°, Low 75–80°. Sunny with 0% rain chance. Heat index 103–109°.
- Tuesday: High 93–99°, Low 76–81°. Sunny with 0% rain chance. Heat index 104–112°.
- Wednesday: High 95–99°, Low 76–81°. Partly sunny with 0% rain chance. Heat index 105–114°.
- Thursday: High 94–99°, Rain chance 10–30%. Heat index 106–112°. Mostly partly cloudy with increasing humidity.
