Weather outlook: Rain chances increase heading into weekend in Rapides Parish

Residents can expect warm temperatures and increasing rain chances as the week progresses, with the highest likelihood of storms arriving over the weekend.

Wednesday will begin mostly cloudy before becoming mostly sunny in the afternoon. There is a slight 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms later in the day. Highs are expected to reach the mid-80s with south winds between 5 and 10 mph.

Thursday will remain mostly cloudy in the morning, turning partly sunny by afternoon with highs in the lower 80s. South winds will continue at 5 to 10 mph.

Rain chances climb Friday, with partly sunny skies and a 40 percent chance of afternoon showers. Highs will again reach the mid-80s.

The wettest period of the forecast is expected Saturday, with an 80 percent chance of rain. Showers are possible in the morning, with showers and thunderstorms likely in the afternoon. Highs will be in the mid-80s. Rain chances remain elevated Saturday night at 50 percent, with lows in the mid-60s.

Sunday brings a 70 percent chance of rain, with showers likely in the afternoon and a chance of thunderstorms. Highs will be near 80 degrees.

Rain chances decrease slightly but remain present into early next week. Sunday night through Monday carries a 40 percent chance of showers, with highs in the mid-80s and lows in the mid-60s.

Monday night will remain mostly cloudy with lows in the mid-60s. Tuesday continues mostly cloudy with a 30 percent chance of afternoon showers and highs in the mid-80s.

Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts as conditions may change, particularly heading into the weekend when storms are more likely.