Rapides Parish residents can expect foggy mornings, increasing rain chances late in the week, and a noticeable cool-down heading into the weekend, according to the latest forecast.

Wednesday will begin with widespread dense fog, which may reduce visibility during the morning commute. Skies are expected to remain mostly cloudy early before turning mostly sunny by late morning.

Afternoon highs will reach the upper 70s, with light winds shifting from west to south. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy early, becoming mostly cloudy, with lows in the lower 60s.

Mostly cloudy conditions continue Thursday, with a 30 percent chance of showers developing during the afternoon. Highs are forecast in the upper 70s, while south winds increase to 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. Rain chances rise Thursday night, with a 50 percent chance of showers after midnight and overnight lows in the mid 60s.

Friday is shaping up to be the most active weather day of the week. Showers are likely in the morning, followed by showers and a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon. Rain chances peak at 90 percent, with highs in the mid 70s. Cooler air will arrive Friday night as showers and possible thunderstorms continue, dropping lows into the lower 50s.

The weekend will bring much cooler temperatures. Saturday and Saturday night will remain mostly cloudy, with daytime highs in the lower 60s and overnight lows falling into the upper 30s.

From Sunday through Tuesday, mostly cloudy skies are expected to persist, with highs in the mid 50s and lows in the mid 30s, keeping conditions well below average for this time of year.

Drivers are urged to use caution during periods of dense fog, and residents should prepare for wet weather late in the week followed by colder conditions through the weekend and into early next week.