NEW ORLEANS — An excessive heat warning is in effect until 7 p.m. Monday. The official start of summer begins in two days and will likely bring more heat warnings over the next few months.
Tony Breaux enjoyed time outdoors at City Park even on this steamy Monday.
"It's not hot yet, you know when you're from New Orleans, you learn to adapt to the weather," he said.
Breaux makes sure to stay hydrated while still getting his steps in.
"My doctor says I have to do 150 minutes per week so I make it my business. I adjust to the weather, it's worth it for your health," he said.
Meanwhile, you'll find Patrick Thompson under a shady tree, enjoying the outdoors.
"I'm just trying to relax, balance myself, connect with nature, do a little reading," he said.
He brings a large jug of water to keep hydrated.
"You got to drink water folks, especially when it's hot like this," Thompson said. "Listen, this heat convinces me I must go to Heaven. I have to."
To offer resources during the excessive heat warning, the City of New Orleans has launched a Heat Relief Map. It shows you where public water fountains are, emergency cooling centers, plus hydrations stations where you can get free water and sunscreen. You can visit the Heat Relief Map HERE: https://nolagis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/instant/sidebar/index.html?appid=fece81eaea0d42a58c0eeea7eb5a890f
The National Weather Service issues an excessive heat warning when the heat index is forecasted to reach at least 113 degrees or the forecasted temperature is higher than 105 degrees for at least two days. Those levels can be life threatening.
"It is hot but were pushing through," said Alex Ingram who played pickleball in the heat at City Park Monday. "I feel like since we grew up here, it's always been this way."
Those who work outside are advised to take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning. Know the signs of heat exhaustion like feeling faint, dizzy, excessive sweating, clammy skin, nausea, weak pulse, and muscle cramps.