Louisiana – Cool air brushes the Gulf Coast this morning, with a crisp breeze slipping between buildings and rippling across the lakefront. Jackets feel necessary early, but the chill won’t last long as a dramatic warm-up builds heading into the first days of 2026.
According to the National Weather Service, New Orleans started the morning near 43 degrees with north winds around 7 mph. Sunshine dominates today, pushing highs into the upper 50s and drying out roads across the metro. Early commuters may notice a cool bite, but travel conditions remain smooth.
New Year’s Day turns warmer fast. Skies stay sunny, and temperatures climb into the upper 60s by afternoon. That warming trend accelerates Thursday night and into Friday as southerly winds strengthen and humidity returns.
By Friday evening, rain chances rise sharply. Showers become likely late Friday night, with an 80 percent chance of rain continuing into early Saturday. Wet pavement may slow travel along I-10, the Causeway, and surface streets during overnight and early-morning hours. Gusty winds could also impact drivers on elevated roadways.
Saturday begins unsettled, with lingering showers early before conditions improve later in the day. Highs reach the low 70s once clouds thin. Saturday night turns calmer and cooler, with clear skies and lows falling into the low 50s.
Sunday looks ideal to wrap up the first weekend of 2026. Sunshine returns, highs reach the mid-60s, and humidity drops again, offering a comfortable break after Friday’s rain.
Drivers should plan ahead for late Friday travel and stay alert on wet roads. Winter extremes stay away, but timing matters. Heading out Friday night or early Saturday? Tell us what conditions look like near you.
Five Day Outlook for New Orleans, Louisiana
Today: Sunny, high near 58°F
Tonight: Clear, low near 44°F
New Year’s Day: Sunny, high near 67°F
Friday: Partly sunny, high near 73°F; showers late
Saturday: Chance of showers early, high near 73°F
