New Orleans, Louisiana – A stretch of warmer-than-average temperatures could bring an early hint of spring to Louisiana beginning Thursday, Feb. 26, as mild air settles across the state through Monday, March 2.
According to NOAA’s 6- to 10-day outlook issued Friday, above-normal temperatures are favored across much of the Gulf Coast during the Thursday-to-Monday period, while precipitation trends near seasonal averages. That pattern supports consistently warm afternoons without a strong signal for prolonged heavy rainfall.
Statewide, highs may climb into the low to mid-70s across southern and central Louisiana, including New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Lafayette. In Shreveport and Monroe, afternoon temperatures could run 5 to 10 degrees above late-February averages, especially along the I-20 corridor. Coastal communities such as Houma and Lake Charles may also see mild afternoons, with Gulf breezes keeping conditions comfortable.
Rainfall appears closer to typical late-winter levels, meaning passing systems are possible but widespread soaking rain is not strongly indicated at this time. Drivers along I-10 and the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway should still monitor for patchy morning fog if skies clear overnight and winds remain light.
Residents can take advantage of the warmer stretch for outdoor activities, but late-winter variability remains possible. The mild pattern is expected to hold through March 2, with additional updates if stronger systems begin organizing across the Gulf region.
