Warning Issued! Shreveport to Possibly See Record High Temp
Yes, it's hot! But, it's July in Louisiana, so we expect the heat, but the type of heat we've experienced this summer is extremely hot, even for the Bayou State.
For the past several weeks, the Shreveport area has seen daily "Heat Advisories" but today's ante has just gotten steeper!
Instead of the "advisory", the National Weather Service in Shreveport has issued an "Excessive Heat Warning" through 7:00 pm today, July 19, for portions of north central and northwest Louisiana, south central and southwest Arkansas and northeast Texas.
Here's how the National Weather Service differentiates between an "advisory" and a "warning."
Heat Advisory
A Heat Advisory is issued when the heat index value is expected to reach 105 to 109 degrees (east of the Blue Ridge) or 100 to 104 degrees (west of the Blue Ridge) within the next 12 to 24 hours. A Heat Advisory may be issued for lower criteria if it is early in the season or during a multi-day heat wave.
Excessive Heat Warning
An Excessive Heat Warning is issued when the heat index value is expected to reach or exceed 110 degrees (east of the Blue Ridge) or 105 degrees (west of the Blue Ridge) within the next 12 to 24 hours. An Excessive Heat Warning may be issued for lower criteria if it is early in the season or during a multi-day heat wave.
Today, and possibly again tomorrow, Wednesday, July 20, the National Weather Service has issued the latter for most of the Arklatex.
With a possible record high temperature of 102 expected today in Shreveport, the National Weather Service advises extreme caution with today's Excessive Heat Warning.
They expect dangerously hot conditions with high temperatures between 100 and 105 degrees and heat index values up to 112 degrees.
The warning states that extreme heat and humidity will significantly increase the potential for heat related illnesses, particularly for those working or participating in outdoor activities. NWS suggests to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances.