Temperatures soared in southeast Louisiana on Wednesday, leading the National Weather Service to issue a heat advisory and local organizations to urge people to take precautions.
The heat index reached 105 degrees in Baton Rouge, 104 degrees in New Orleans and 106 degrees in Lafayette, the weather service reported Wednesday afternoon.
The heat index measures the effects of high temperatures — which rose into the mid-90s — combined with high humidity. It is sometimes described as "how hot it feels."
The weather service's heat advisory covered more than 30 parishes, from Lafayette to the west, across Baton Rouge and Hammond to New Orleans and south to Houma.
A heat advisory has been issued for today as the "feel like" temperatures will range from 105 to 110 degrees in the advisory areas. pic.twitter.com/QcOAE9pihN
— NWS New Orleans (@NWSNewOrleans) June 14, 2023
Phil Grigsby, a lead forecaster with the National Weather Service in Slidell, said a heat advisory isn't unusual for the area at this time of year.
He said, however, that the three-month seasonal outlook for June, July and August shows a 50% to 60% probability of seeing higher than normal temperatures in southeast Louisiana.
Residents are encouraged to stay as much as they can out of the sun in air-conditioned rooms, drink plenty of fluids and check on relatives and neighbors, the weather service said.
People spending time outdoors should take extra precautions. Anyone affected by the heat should move to a cool, shady location and 911 should be called, the weather service said.
"Stay hydrated, make sure you don't have any pets or kids in the car," Grigsby said.
"If you have to be outdoors, try to work in the early morning or late evening, take frequent breaks and wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes," he said.
The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine issued a news release Thursday urging pet owners to take precautions. Any outdoor pets should have ample shade and plenty of water, and dog owners shouldn't go jogging or biking with them during midday hours, the release said.
The school also urged pet owners to look for early signs of heatstroke, including rapid breathing, increased heart rate, and gums that turn from light pink to bright red or dull grayish-pink. Any animal displaying those symptoms should be moved to a cooler area, dampened with cool water, and brought to the veterinarian.