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Health Warning! Extreme Heat Hits New Orleans—Doctors Urge Residents to Stay Hydrated & Avoid the Sun

Health Warning! Extreme Heat Hits New Orleans—Doctors Urge Residents to Stay Hydrated & Avoid the Sun

February is supposed to be mild in the Big Easy, but this week, it feels more like the middle of summer! A powerful heat wave is gripping New Orleans, with temperatures soaring into the 80s°F (27-28°C), breaking records and creating dangerous conditions for residents.

Health officials are urging people to stay hydrated, avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Air conditioning use is skyrocketing, and some are concerned about the strain on the power grid. With several more days of extreme warmth ahead, here’s what you need to know to stay cool and safe.

Current Weather Conditions

  • Temperature: 69°F (20°C)
  • Sky: Cloudy

How Hot Will It Get?

  • Wednesday: Fog in the morning, warm and cloudy. High: 77°F (25°C), Low: 66°F (19°C).
  • Thursday: Partly sunny and HOT. High: 81°F (27°C), Low: 63°F (17°C).
  • Friday: More sun, still very warm. High: 80°F (26°C), Low: 65°F (18°C).
  • Saturday: Hot and humid. High: 82°F (28°C), Low: 67°F (19°C).
  • Sunday: Mostly cloudy, staying hot. High: 82°F (28°C), Low: 64°F (18°C).
  • Monday: Finally cooling down slightly. High: 73°F (23°C), Low: 63°F (17°C).

Normal February highs in New Orleans are around 65°F (18°C), meaning we’re seeing temperatures nearly 20 degrees above average!

 What This Heat Wave Means for New Orleans

 Increased Health Risks – Who’s in Danger?

Extreme heat in February might feel nice at first, but high temperatures can be dangerous—especially for children, the elderly, and people with health conditions.

Signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke:

  • Dizziness, nausea, or headaches
  • Heavy sweating followed by dry skin (a sign of heatstroke!)
  • Rapid heartbeat or confusion

If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, get to a cool place, drink water, and seek medical help if needed.

 Energy Use Skyrocketing – Will the Power Grid Hold?

With everyone blasting their AC units and fans, electricity demand is spiking. While no outages are expected yet, extreme energy use could put stress on the power grid.

How to lower your bill and reduce strain on the system:

  • Set your thermostat to 78°F—just cool enough to stay comfortable.
  • Close blinds and curtains to keep heat out.
  • Use ceiling fans instead of cranking the AC.

 

Outdoor Events & Mardi Gras Preparations Affected

This heat wave comes at a critical time as New Orleans gears up for Mardi Gras celebrations. The high temperatures and humidity could make parades and outdoor festivities exhausting.

If you’re attending events, be smart:

  • Drink extra water—alcohol and heat don’t mix well!
  • Wear light, breathable clothing to avoid overheating.
  • Take breaks in the shade whenever possible.

 What You Should Do to Stay Safe

  •  Stay HydratedDrink water often, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
  •  Avoid Peak Heat Hours – Limit outdoor activities between 10 AM – 4 PM.
  •  Dress SmartWear light-colored, loose clothing and a hat.
  •  Check on Vulnerable People – The elderly and those with medical conditions are most at risk.
  •  Keep Cool – If you don’t have air conditioning, find a cool place like a library or shopping mall.

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