Residents of Claiborne Parish can expect another stretch of hot summer weather this week, with temperatures climbing into the mid-90s before increasing chances of showers and thunderstorms arrive over the weekend and early next week.
According to the National Weather Service forecast, sunny skies and above-average temperatures will dominate the middle of the week, while a more unsettled weather pattern is expected to develop beginning Friday and continuing into Monday.
Midweek Heat
Wednesday is forecast to be mostly sunny with a high near 94 degrees. Light south winds around 5 mph will provide little relief from the heat. Overnight temperatures will remain warm, with lows only dropping to around 77 degrees under clear skies.
Similar conditions are expected Thursday, with abundant sunshine and another high near 94 degrees. Thursday night will remain mostly clear with temperatures settling around 79 degrees.
Storm Chances Return Friday
Rain chances begin to increase Friday as a 20 percent chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms develops after 1 p.m.
Despite the possibility of isolated storms, temperatures are still expected to reach around 92 degrees under mostly sunny skies.
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms will continue Friday night, mainly after 1 a.m., with overnight lows near 76 degrees.
Wetter Weekend Ahead
The likelihood of rain increases Saturday, when Claiborne Parish faces a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, primarily during the afternoon and evening hours. High temperatures are expected to remain near 92 degrees.
Saturday night brings a lingering 20 percent chance of storms before skies become partly cloudy with lows around 77 degrees.
On Sunday, a 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms remains in the forecast. Temperatures will stay warm, reaching near 91 degrees despite increasing cloud cover and storm activity.
Highest Rain Chances Early Next Week
The wettest portion of the forecast is expected Sunday night through Monday.
Showers and thunderstorms become likely Sunday night with a 60 percent chance of precipitation as mostly cloudy skies settle over the area. Overnight lows are expected to fall to around 75 degrees.
Rain chances increase further Monday, when forecasters are calling for a 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Cloud cover and rainfall are expected to keep temperatures somewhat cooler, with highs reaching only around 87 degrees.
Forecast Outlook
While heat and humidity will remain the dominant weather story through much of the week, residents should prepare for a gradual increase in thunderstorm activity heading into the weekend and the start of next week.
Forecasters remind residents to stay hydrated, limit prolonged outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and remain weather-aware as thunderstorms may bring periods of heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds.
The combination of summer heat and increasing moisture will create a typical early June weather pattern across Claiborne Parish, with the greatest potential for widespread rainfall arriving Sunday night and Monday.