New Orleans, La. – Dangerous heat will grip southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi Thursday, with heat index values climbing as high as 111 degrees along the I-10 and I-12 corridors. The National Weather Service warns that prolonged exposure to such conditions could lead to heat-related illnesses.
According to the National Weather Service in New Orleans, the Heat Advisory remains in effect from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Thursday. The warning covers major population centers including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Slidell, Hammond, Covington, and Bay St. Louis. Those without access to cooling should seek relief in air-conditioned buildings or public cooling centers.
The combination of high humidity and air temperatures near the upper 90s will create dangerous conditions for outdoor workers and vulnerable populations. Officials urge residents to limit strenuous activity during peak heat, drink plenty of fluids, and check on elderly neighbors. Pets should be kept indoors and never left in vehicles.
This stretch of oppressive heat is expected to ease slightly by the weekend, though temperatures will remain above average for mid-August. Additional advisories could be issued if heat persists into early next week.
