Northwest Louisiana Heat Index Could Hit 100 Degrees This Week

Here in Northwest Louisiana extreme heat is just a part of life during the summer. It's not unusual for Shreveport and the surrounding area to see temps climb over 100 degrees with extreme humidity. And, while we know it's coming, it always seems to punch us in the mouth when it happens.

And this week, we're getting our first taste of extreme heat of the season. While the actual temps won't rise about the mid-90s (which is still pretty darn hot), the 'feels like temps' potentially could climb well into the 100s.

Excessive Heat Warning Issued For Northwest Louisiana

Like I said, over the next few days, temps are expected to be in the mid-90s. However, according to the National Weather Service, "Heat indices will likely exceed 100 degrees" for the next couple of days.

Unlike the East Coast and some other areas in the country, it appears that Northwest Louisiana will get a bit of relief. The Weather Channel is projecting scattered thunderstorms and cloudy conditions from Friday July 3rd thru Wednesday July 8th. These conditions will knock daily highs down to the low to mid 90s, which is at least somewhat bearable.

READ MORE: The Hottest Temps Ever Recorded in Shreveport

While lower temps is good, there is potential for some of these storms to get a bit dangerous. The National Weather Service says that some of these pop up storms could range from 'strong to severe' and produce damaging winds. But, hey, at least it won't feel like we're living on the surface of the sun for a few days.

Heat Related Health Issues to Be Aware Of

If you are doing ANYTHING outdoors - working, playing golf, exercising, or whatever - it's important to listen to your body. These temps are no joke. The heat, quite literally, can kill you. So, it's important to stay hydrated, take breaks, and dress appropriately.

These heat related health issues can impact anybody - young, old, healthy - they do not discriminate. So, according to the Cleveland Health Clinic, here's a list of heat related illness to be aware of:

• Heat rash: Also known as prickly heat, this red, stinging rash develops when you’re hot and sweaty. It’s most likely to show up in areas where sweat gets trapped, like inside your elbows and behind your knees.
• Heat cramps: Painful muscle cramps can strike when you’re exercising in hot weather. They develop when you sweat so much that your body loses salts and fluids.
• Heat exhaustion: More serious than heat rash or cramps, heat exhaustion occurs when your body can’t cool itself through sweating. Untreated, it can progress to heat stroke.
• Heat stroke: Sometimes called sunstroke, this is the most severe heat-related illness. During heat stroke, your body temperature climbs quickly to dangerous levels. Often, people with heat stroke stop sweating. Without treatment, can be deadly.

So, if you're spending any time outdoors, listen to your body. Drink plenty of water, take regular breaks, and find shade/AC when you can.