The prolonged period of dry weather across the region will continue through the workweek before a potential shift in the pattern arrives just in time for Halloween weekend.
High temperatures Monday through Friday are forecast to hold steady in the upper 70s and lower 80s. Overnight lows will offer a pleasant cool down across the area:
- Northshore: Lows dropping into the 50s.
- Southshore: Lows ranging from the upper 50s to the mid-60s.
While the comfortable, dry setup remains firmly in place for most of the week, weather models indicate that tropical moisture will begin creeping back into the area by next weekend.
Weekend Rain Outlook
Computer models have oscillated over the timing and coverage of precipitation starting Saturday into Saturday night.
The best potential for showers appears focused across Southern and Central Mississippi, where atmospheric lift from a weak front or trough is most likely to kickstart the water cycle.
Forecast details to keep in mind for weekend outdoor plans:
- Precipitation type: Heavy, summer-style downpours are not expected. Any activity that develops will consist of general rain showers with no lightning or thunder.
- Friday (10% chance): Outdoor events scheduled for Friday evening remain in great shape.
- Saturday (40% chance): Rain chances peak Saturday afternoon into Saturday night.
- Sunday (30% chance): Scattered shower chances linger into the second half of the weekend.
Much-Needed Relief for Regional Drought
October typically ranks as one of the driest months of the year for the Gulf Coast, and active burn bans currently cover large portions of both Louisiana and Mississippi. While rain is sorely needed across the region to ease fire danger, the timing near Halloween festivities is less than ideal for trick-or-treaters.
Because the forecast is still five to six days out, rain chances are subject to adjust up or down over the coming days. Those planning outdoor Halloween celebrations or weekend fall festivities should monitor updates closely and prepare a contingency plan.
READ MORE:Louisiana’s Halloween Forecast: Wet weather possible next weekend
