Heat Advisory with hot weekend ahead as Erin strengthens into first 2025 hurricane
A hot weekend is on the way with a Heat Advisory in effect for the Capital Region as temperatures edge into the mid-90s and heat indices climb above 108 degrees. In the Atlantic, Hurricane Erin is rapidly intensifying and has become the first hurricane of the 2025 season, packing powerful winds as it moves through the region near the northern Leeward Islands.
Today and Tonight
High pressure remains in control, keeping Louisiana hot, humid, and largely sunny. Isolated to scattered afternoon storms may develop, bringing gusty winds, lightning, and heavy downpours, but the main concern is the extreme heat. Highs are expected in the mid-90s with feels-like temperatures surpassing 108 degrees. Stay hydrated, take breaks in the shade, and watch for signs of heat illness. Tonight should be mostly clear with overnight lows in the mid-70s.
Up Next
Sunday stays hot with highs in the mid-90s, and a few afternoon showers or storms are possible. The heat sticks around into early next week, with highs in the low to mid-90s and heat index values pushing past 105 degrees. Each afternoon brings a 20–40% chance of storms—while most won’t be severe, any lingering storms could produce gusty winds and heavy downpours.
The Tropics
Hurricane Erin, the first hurricane of the 2025 season, is intensifying quickly as it passes near or just north of the northern Leeward Islands. Erin strengthened from tropical-storm strength winds (70 mph) to a Category 4 hurricane (145 mph) in under 24 hours. The outer bands are expected to bring heavy rainfall across the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, with rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches and isolated amounts up to 6 inches. Locally significant flash and urban flooding, along with landslides or mudslides, are possible.
Erin may continue to strengthen temporarily over the weekend as it turns more north-northwest and moves east of the Bahamas. Next week, Erin is expected to move north across the western Atlantic.
Northwestern Atlantic
A broad, weak area of low pressure off the coast of North Carolina is producing disorganized showers. Some slight development is possible over the next day or two as it drifts slowly over the warm Gulf Stream waters. By Monday, environmental conditions are expected to become unfavorable for further development.
What to watch and safety tips
– Heat: Stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat, and check on neighbors and vulnerable residents. Heat-related illness can strike quickly in these conditions.
– Storms: If you encounter a storm, seek shelter, avoid windows, and monitor local advisories for timing and potential impacts.
– Erin: Monitor official hurricane advisories, especially if you live in or travel to areas that Erin may affect. Track the storm’s path and prepare an emergency plan in case of changes.
Summary
The region faces a hot, humid weekend with heat advisories in effect and a chance of afternoon storms. Concurrently, Erin has rapidly intensified into the season’s first hurricane, posing tropical threats to parts of the Leeward Islands and surrounding areas, with heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Stay updated with local forecasts and be prepared for both heat and tropical-weather impacts.
Optional value-added notes
– If you’ve got outdoor plans, consider shifting activities to cooler parts of the day, and keep a close eye on heat-management tips.
– For travelers, factor in potential weather-related delays or changes in plans due to heat advisories and tropical-storm activity in the Atlantic.
– Community planning: Local authorities may issue additional advisories if Erin alters its track; residents should review emergency kits and evacuation routes as needed.
Positive angle
Even in the midst of extreme heat and evolving tropical conditions, the clear forecast gives residents time to prepare, hydrate, and plan safer outdoor activities while authorities monitor Erin’s developments and work to keep communities informed.