Heat Advisory Issued For Southeast Louisiana, Parts Of Mississippi On Labor Day

Residents across southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi are being urged to take precautions this Labor Day as dangerous heat and humidity are expected to push heat index values well above 100 degrees during what is already expected to be a busy day for outdoor activities across the region.

A Heat Advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. Monday, September 7, covering much of southeast Louisiana and portions of southern Mississippi. The advisory was issued because of elevated heat index values expected during the afternoon, when the combination of high temperatures and significant Gulf Coast humidity can make conditions outside feel considerably hotter than the actual temperature. For residents planning Labor Day cookouts, outdoor gatherings, trips to parks or other activities, the biggest concern will be prolonged exposure during the hottest portion of the day.

The Northshore and surrounding areas are certainly no strangers to extreme summer heat, but heat advisories are issued when conditions reach levels that can become dangerous, particularly for people who remain outdoors for extended periods. High humidity makes it more difficult for the human body to cool itself because sweat does not evaporate as efficiently. That means someone can become overheated even when they believe they are accustomed to Louisiana’s summer temperatures. Outdoor workers, athletes and anyone doing strenuous activity during the afternoon can face an increased risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke if they do not take regular breaks and stay properly hydrated.

Labor Day could create an additional concern because many families traditionally spend at least part of the holiday outdoors. Backyard cookouts, fishing trips, sporting activities and community gatherings can keep people outside for hours at a time, sometimes without realizing how quickly the heat is affecting them. Residents are encouraged to drink water regularly rather than waiting until they feel thirsty and to take frequent breaks inside an air conditioned building or shaded area. Alcohol and some heavily caffeinated beverages can also contribute to dehydration, making water especially important for anyone spending a significant amount of time outside.

Children and elderly residents are among those who can be especially vulnerable during periods of dangerous heat. People with certain medical conditions and those without reliable access to air conditioning can also face greater risks. Families are encouraged to check on relatives, friends and neighbors who may need assistance during the hottest part of the afternoon. Parents should also pay close attention to children playing outdoors, since children may not recognize the early symptoms of heat related illness or stop playing when they begin becoming overheated.

Vehicles can become particularly dangerous in hot weather. Children and pets should never be left inside a parked vehicle, even for what appears to be a short period of time. The temperature inside a vehicle can climb rapidly when exposed to direct sunlight, creating potentially deadly conditions much faster than many people realize. Anyone traveling with pets for Labor Day activities should also make sure animals have access to water, shade and a cooler environment when necessary. Hot pavement can also become dangerous for dogs during the afternoon.

Recognizing the symptoms of heat related illness can be critical. Heat exhaustion can include heavy sweating, dizziness, weakness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps and fainting. Someone showing those symptoms should be moved to a cooler location and begin cooling down as quickly as possible. Heat stroke is considerably more serious and can become life threatening. Confusion, loss of consciousness and an extremely elevated body temperature can indicate a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.

The heat will not necessarily mean completely dry conditions across the region. Scattered showers and thunderstorms are also possible during the day, something residents should keep in mind when making outdoor Labor Day plans. Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly across southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi, bringing periods of heavy rainfall, lightning and gusty winds to individual communities even while nearby locations remain dry.

Lightning can present a particular danger for people attending outdoor gatherings, swimming, boating or fishing. Anyone who hears thunder should move to a safe indoor location rather than attempting to wait out a storm underneath a tree, pavilion or other partially covered outdoor structure. Residents should continue monitoring changing weather conditions throughout the afternoon because conditions can vary considerably from one community to another.

The combination of dangerous heat and the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms means residents may have to pay closer attention to the weather than usual while celebrating the holiday. Even when clouds or a brief shower temporarily lower temperatures, high humidity can remain in place and uncomfortable conditions can quickly return once the sun comes back out.

For people who must work outdoors Monday, frequent breaks and access to water will be particularly important. Employers and supervisors should watch workers for signs of heat stress, especially during strenuous physical activity. Anyone beginning to feel dizzy, unusually weak, nauseated or confused should not attempt to simply push through the symptoms.

Residents can still enjoy Labor Day activities, but planning ahead could make a significant difference. Having plenty of water available, providing shade, allowing people to cool off indoors and scheduling strenuous activities outside of the hottest afternoon hours can reduce the risk of heat related problems.

The Heat Advisory remains in effect through 7 p.m. Monday. Residents across southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi are encouraged to keep an eye on local weather conditions throughout the day, especially if spending several hours outside.

With dangerous heat, high humidity and the possibility of scattered thunderstorms all in the forecast, anyone heading outside for Labor Day should be prepared for changing conditions and take the heat seriously.