Baton Rouge, La. – Blistering heat and humidity are making it dangerous to be outdoors across southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi, with the National Weather Service warning heat index values could reach 109° in some areas until 7 p.m. Wednesday.
According to the National Weather Service New Orleans, a Heat Advisory remains in effect for cities including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Gulfport, Jackson, and surrounding parishes and counties from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. today. Emergency management officials urge residents to drink extra fluids, avoid outdoor activity, and check on vulnerable neighbors as heat illness risk climbs throughout the day.
Major highways like I-10, I-12, and I-55 running through Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Slidell, and Gulfport could see slowed traffic and roadside hazards as pavement temperatures spike. Local schools and summer camps are moving activities indoors, while city services in Ascension, Livingston, Hancock, and Harrison counties are opening cooling centers for those without air conditioning.
Staying in air-conditioned rooms, avoiding direct sunlight, and limiting strenuous activities remain the best ways to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Officials also recommend checking on elderly relatives, neighbors, and pets frequently.
Dangerous heat is expected to linger through the evening, with additional advisories possible for Thursday if high humidity continues.
