textproduct: New Orleans/Baton Rouge

KEY MESSAGES

Updated at 1158 AM CDT Wed Aug 19 2026

- Dangerous heat continues with afternoon heat indices in the 105-113 degree range through the week. Warm overnight temperatures will offer limited to no relief.

- Only isolated to scattered afternoon storms are expected the next couple days. Coverage should be somewhat greater toward the Mississippi coast and eastern portions of the forecast area.

SHORT TERM

(Now through Saturday) Issued at 1158 AM CDT Wed Aug 19 2026

Upper level ridging will continue to dominate the pattern for our area for the next couple of days, but will be weakening/breaking down. Southerly surface winds will help to advect warm air and moisture into the area, increasing humidities. Daily afternoon and early evening scattered showers and storms will continue for the next few days. There is some uncertainty in the long range models, but generally a shortwave influence will enhance some rain chances for Saturday morning. These storms through the end of the week will have the potential for frequent lightning and gusty subsevere winds (40-50mph) where they occur.

Heat concerns will continue with highs in the mid 90s and heat index values around 105-112 degrees. A heat advisory is in effect through this evening and again for Thursday during the peak daytime heating hours. Some relief could be in sight as we get toward the weekend. MSW

LONG TERM

(Saturday night through Tuesday) Issued at 1158 AM CDT Wed Aug 19 2026

Sunday through mid-week, ridging begins to influence the pattern again. A drier period of weather will occur early next week with isolated showers possible at times, mainly during peak heating hours. These showers could have lighting or gusty subsevere winds, but will be generally weaker and limited in areal coverage.

The heat will continue for early next week. High temperatures are forecast in the mid 90s with heat index values ranging from 103-110 degrees. Make sure to stay hydrated and take frequent breaks if spending time outside! MSW

AVIATION

(18Z TAFS) Issued at 1158 AM CDT Wed Aug 19 2026

VFR conditions prevail at all area airports and will persist through the forecast period. A PROB30 group is in effect for GPT for scattered afternoon shower/storm that are possible today. MSW

MARINE

Issued at 1158 AM CDT Wed Aug 19 2026

Surface high pressure centered over the central Gulf will maintain a generally weak pressure gradient through much of the period. A predominantly westerly flow will continue, with higher winds during the early morning and late night hours. Isolated thunderstorms will remain possible with winds and waves higher in and near this activity, particularly during the overnight and early morning hours.

LIX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES

LA...Heat Advisory until 8 PM CDT this evening for LAZ034>037-039- 046>048-056>058-064-070-071-076>087-089>100.

Heat Advisory from 11 AM to 8 PM CDT Thursday for LAZ034>037-039- 046>048-056>058-064-070-071-076>087-089>100.

GM...None. MS...Heat Advisory until 8 PM CDT this evening for MSZ068>071-077- 083>088.

Heat Advisory from 11 AM to 8 PM CDT Thursday for MSZ068>071-077- 083>088.

GM...None.