A very hot weekend is planned for Acadiana as a ridge of high pressure in the upper levels, and generally stable air at the lower levels combine to bring mostly sunny skies. Temperatures should easily reach the mid 90s with heat index values hovering around 105. Winds will be light and variable during the morning, with a light south breeze this afternoon. Winds won't give us any relief, nor will the afternoon storms. Because of the stable air in place, convection will be inhibited. Therefore, with no lift, no storms.
This pattern will linger through the weekend. Expect hazy sunshine with highs in the mid to upper 90s Saturday and Sunday. Heat index values may approach 108, which might kick in a heat advisory. Regardless of what we call it, it will be very hot. If your plans keep you outside, use common sense and drink plenty of water. Wear loose, light fitting clothing. Take frequent breaks from the heat by getting into some shade or air conditioning. Little if any rain is expected through Sunday.
Next week, the ridge may break down, therefore a few more afternoon showers or storms can be expected. There's also a little hint in the models that suggest an uptick in tropical activity. Right now the suggestion shows something trying to develop over the eastern Gulf of Mexico and heading toward Florida's panhandle, then crossing over the southeast and back into the Atlantic. We'll keep an eye on anything, but you shouldn't have to worry about anything happening this weekend.
