Relief Is Close for Some, But the Gulf Coast's Heat Danger Isn't Over

Relief from the extreme heat is headed to some parts of the South while other areas will continue to sizzle. Here is a look at what you can expect for temperatures in the coming days.

Heat Dome Will Persist Along the Gulf Coast and Beyond

A large heat dome will drive the weather pattern throughout the Gulf Coast to start the new work week. The result will be more dangerous temperatures and high humidity levels. When paired with the toasty overnight lows, the threat of heat-related illnesses will continue to present hazards for the millions of people who call this part of the country home.

Record high temperatures will be the story for a few more days along the Gulf Coast and parts of the south-central U.S. When combined with the muggy conditions, real feel readings will approach the 115-degree mark.

Although some spotty rain showers helped to temporarily cut the heat in the Southeast on Sunday, lasting relief is still days away. As such, forecasters are warning residents to take care when spending time outside. Staying hydrated, wearing light-colored clothing, and taking frequent breaks are all good strategies. These tips are particularly important for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.

It is also important to remember how vehicles can become dangerously hot in a matter of mere minutes. Never leave children or pets unattended in a vehicle. Lastly, be sure to be mindful of the hot pavement when walking your pets.

Monday is setting up to be another scorcher of a day in the southern third of the U.S. Complicating the problems will be the warm overnight lows. Some urban areas may bottom out with lows in the mid 80s, giving residents no break from the relentless heat even after the sun goes down.

Places such as Little Rock will be at the heart of the heat dome. The capital city of Arkansas is forecast to remain in the triple digits through the middle of the week. While this region is no stranger to heat and humidity in August, these readings are still about 10 degrees above what is expected for this time of the year.

When can you count on some relief to arrive? The forecast is predicting that the heat dome will start to fall apart across the central U.S. by the middle of the week. Temperatures will begin to slide in a zone from Missouri to the east to the Atlantic coastline.

However, the sizzling temperatures are forecast to hang on across the Gulf Coast through the week. While an uptick in afternoon thunderstorms may bring temporary relief from the heat, it will remain humid and steamy in this region. For instance, New Orleans will remain in the 90s for highs for the balance of the week despite a chance of daily thunderstorms.