Residents should prepare for a stretch of hot, humid weather and daily chances of showers and thunderstorms through the Juneteenth holiday and into the weekend, according to the latest forecast.
Rain chances begin increasing Wednesday as partly sunny skies give way to scattered showers and thunderstorms. High temperatures are expected to reach the upper 80s with southeast winds of 10 to 15 mph and gusts up to 20 mph. Rain chances stand at 50 percent. Overnight, mostly cloudy skies and continued chances of showers and thunderstorms will keep temperatures in the mid-70s.
The wettest period of the forecast arrives Thursday, when showers and thunderstorms become likely across Vernon Parish. Forecasters are calling for a 70 percent chance of rain with highs in the lower 90s. Humidity will push heat index values as high as 107 degrees, creating potentially dangerous conditions for those spending extended periods outdoors.
Thursday night brings a slight decrease in rain chances, though isolated showers and thunderstorms remain possible as temperatures settle into the upper 70s.
Juneteenth on Friday is expected to bring a mix of sunshine, heat and thunderstorms. High temperatures will again climb into the lower 90s, while heat index values could reach 110 degrees. Showers and thunderstorms are likely during the afternoon and evening hours, with a 70 percent chance of rain.
Rain chances continue into Saturday, with partly sunny skies developing after a mostly cloudy morning. Highs will remain in the lower 90s with a 50 percent chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms. Conditions gradually improve Saturday night.
By Sunday, a drier pattern is expected to return. Mostly sunny skies and highs in the lower 90s are forecast, followed by partly cloudy conditions Sunday night.
The warming trend continues into Monday, when highs are expected to reach the mid-90s. Heat index values could climb to around 105 degrees despite mostly sunny skies.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware throughout the week, especially during afternoon and evening hours when thunderstorms are most likely to develop. With heat index values exceeding 100 degrees on several days, outdoor workers, athletes and those attending holiday events should stay hydrated, take frequent breaks and limit strenuous activity during peak afternoon heat.