Hot and humid conditions will continue across Rapides Parish through early next week, with afternoon high temperatures remaining in the mid to upper 90s and heat index values reaching as high as 115 degrees. Daily chances for afternoon showers and thunderstorms are expected to return beginning Thursday.
Wednesday will be sunny with highs in the upper 90s. North winds will range from 5 to 10 mph, and the afternoon heat index could reach 115 degrees. Wednesday night will be mostly clear with lows in the upper 70s. Northeast winds will be 5 to 10 mph, and heat index values could remain as high as 108 degrees early in the evening.
Thursday will be mostly sunny with highs in the mid 90s and a 40 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Northeast winds will be 5 to 10 mph with gusts up to 20 mph during the afternoon. Heat index values could reach 106 degrees. Thursday night will be partly cloudy with lows in the mid 70s.
Friday will be mostly sunny with highs in the mid 90s and a 50 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Heat index values could reach 105 degrees. Friday night will be partly cloudy with lows in the mid 70s.
Saturday will be mostly sunny with highs in the mid 90s and a 30 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Heat index values could reach 105 degrees. Saturday night will be partly cloudy during the evening before clearing, with lows in the mid 70s.
Sunday will be sunny with highs in the mid 90s. Heat index values could reach 105 degrees. Sunday night will be mostly clear with lows in the mid 70s.
The hot weather will continue into Monday with sunny skies and highs in the upper 90s. Heat index values could climb to around 110 degrees.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit prolonged outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and take precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses as dangerous heat continues across the parish.