Southwest Louisiana gets a break from 'stupid hot' weather
The “stupid hot” weather has moved on from Acadiana and Southwest Louisiana for the time being, the National Weather Service in Lake Charles said Sunday, but the temperature in the area will still be in the upper 90s for much of the week.
NWS Meteorologist Donald Jones said on Facebook that Sunday was expected to be the last day with “stupid hot” temperatures, with Sunday’s high reaching 109 degrees in Lake Charles, according to NWS data. It marked 10 consecutive days with a high of at least 100 degrees.
Temperatures in the Lafayette region hit 110 degrees on Sunday. The region had 11 consecutive days with a high of at least 100 degrees, and the high had been in triple digits for 26 of the last 27 days.
The area is also expected to get some much-needed rain over the next couple of days, though the forecast for Southwest Louisiana and Acadiana said the “will likely put little dent in the ongoing drought conditions across the area.”
A heat advisory is also expected to remain in effect for the area, though some parts of the region — particularly in the northern section — may not fit the criteria for the advisory. Still, the NWS in Lake Charles said it “seemed prudent” to keep the advisory in effect as groups continue to battle wildfires in much of the state.
“With more expansive cloud cover across the area and northerly winds bringing slightly "less hot" air into the region, temperatures are not expected to be nearly as oppressive and record-setting as they have been for the past several days,” an NWS forecast posted Monday morning said. “Highs today are expected to only reach the lower 90s across the northern zones with middle to upper 90s across the southern zones.”
How to stay safe during the heat
Even though the temperature appears to be dropping slightly, Acadian Ambulance released some information on staying safe amidst high temperatures, particularly as outdoor activities like football season begin to ramp up.
“Extreme heat poses potential risks to your health. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a concerned parent, or simply looking to safeguard yourself and your loved ones, understanding the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses is paramount,” said Acadian Chairman and CEO Richard Zuschlag in a release.
Acadian released a video on heat safety that is aimed to help school and youth coaches, day care centers, elderly care centers and people who work outdoors, Zuschlag said in the release.
The company advised that people wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing, as well as a hat to protect their faces. Acadian also suggested wearing sunscreen before going out and reapplying, as well as staying hydrated with cool, nonalcoholic drinks and taking frequent rests.
Acadian also said it's important to monitor children and adults taking psychiatric medication, as they are prone to some heat-related symptoms. The company said to make sure to check medication warnings to see if any special precautions are needed.
The company said to watch out for some heat-related illnesses, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
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This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Southwest Louisiana gets a break from 'stupid hot' weather
