New Orleans is experiencing some of the strangest weather of the season. Instead of cool February breezes, the city is about to feel more like mid-July, with temperatures soaring past 80°F. But that’s not the only concern—a dense ‘super fog’ is forming, creating dangerous driving conditions that could lead to travel disruptions and major slowdowns on the roads.
If you have plans this week, you’ll want to pay close attention to the weather, because this mix of heat, humidity, and zero visibility fog is something the city hasn’t seen in a long time.
Why is It So Hot in February?
New Orleans is used to warm weather, but temperatures this high in February are unusual.
- Wednesday, February 12: Expect a high of 82°F (28°C)—way above normal for this time of year. Humidity levels will also be high, making it feel even warmer.
- Thursday, February 13: Things will cool slightly, but temperatures will still hover around 67°F (20°C)—well above the usual winter chill.
These higher temperatures are pushing moisture into the air, which brings us to the real danger of the week—super fog.
What is ‘Super Fog’ and Why is It So Dangerous?
A marsh fire burning in St. Charles Parish is sending smoke into the air. When this smoke combines with high humidity and cooler morning temperatures, it creates something called ‘super fog’—a thick, blinding mist that reduces visibility to less than 10 feet.
This means:
- Driving becomes extremely dangerous, especially at night and in the early morning.
- Highways and major roads could see major slowdowns, and accidents are more likely.
- The fog could linger for days, depending on how long the marsh fire continues to burn.
Fire crews are trying to put out the fire, but because it’s burning in a remote marshy area, it’s tough to reach—so this super fog could keep coming back each morning until conditions change.
How This Could Impact Your Daily Routine
This odd mix of hot weather and thick fog means a few things for residents and visitors:
- Traffic delays and accidents: If you’re driving, expect sudden visibility drops, slower traffic, and possibly even road closures.
- Uncomfortable outdoor conditions: High humidity and heat, combined with lingering smoke, could make breathing difficult, especially for those with asthma or other respiratory issues.
- Potential flight delays: If you’re flying in or out of New Orleans, foggy conditions could disrupt takeoffs and landings, leading to delays.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
With this strange weather sticking around, here’s how to prepare:
- If you must drive in fog, slow down and use low-beam headlights. High beams make fog worse by reflecting light back at you.
- Stay indoors during peak heat hours. With high humidity, the heat can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for extended periods.
- Check the weather before heading out. If fog is expected in the morning, give yourself extra time for your commute.
- If you have breathing issues, stay inside. The combination of smoke and humidity can make air quality poor—avoid strenuous activity outside.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans is facing **a bizarre weather combination this week—**unseasonably high temperatures mixed with thick, blinding fog. While the warmth may feel like a preview of summer, the ‘super fog’ could create real hazards for drivers and travelers.
