Has Shreveport, LA Seen Record Breaking Heat So Far This Summer?

If you live in the Shreveport-Bossier City area and you think that this summer has been hotter than normal, it sure feels like it, doesn't it?

Believe it or not, the answer isn't a resounding yes. It's more like yes and no. Last summer was actually a lot hotter by the numbers. In fact, by August 15th last summer (2022), we had already sweated our way through a whopping 25 100° plus days. Brings a whole new meaning to the term hot girl summer, doesn't it? Maybe the frequent power outages in our area have us feeling the heat a little more this year? It's entirely possible. Plus, it doesn't help that we keep seeing the news that the entire planet experienced its hottest days ever in early July.

Let's take a look at our hottest days so far by the numbers. Keep in mind that these are 'real' temperatures, not 'feels like' temps or the heat index. The data listed below comes from the Shreveport office of the National Weather Service.

Summer 2023July 18, 2023: 100°July 19, 2023: 101°July 25, 2023: 100°July 28, 2023: 100°July 29, 2023: 101°July 30, 2023: 105°

There's a big difference when compared to last year's days of 100° plus days through the same time period.

Summer 2022June 17, 2022: 100°June 21, 2022: 100°June 22, 2022: 102°June 23, 2022: 100°June 24, 2022: 103°June 25, 2022: 103°June 26, 2022: 105°July 7, 2022: 100°July 8, 2022: 101°July 9, 2022: 105°July 11, 2022: 100°July 12, 2022: 102°July 13, 2022: 104°July 17, 2022: 100°July 18, 2022: 102°July 19, 2022: 102°July 20, 2022: 105°July 25, 2022: 100°July 26, 2022: 100°July 27, 2022: 100°July 28, 2022: 100°July 29, 2022: 101°

The average temperature for the month of July in Shreveport is 94.3°. So yes, we are experiencing a hotter-than-normal summer. Our average temperature for the month of July so far is 96.1°. That's a full 2° cooler than the same time last year. The average high was 98.5° for July 2022. And just in case you were wondering, the highest temperature ever recorded in July in Shreveport WAS 105° in 1998. Well, we tied that record yesterday. Yes, we hit 105° Sunday, July 30, 2023. We have even higher temperatures forecast for later this week, so please be careful!

According to the local branch of the National Weather Service, Shreveport only sees 'maximum temperatures exceeding 100 degrees about 6 days per year, exceeding 95 degrees about 32 days per year, and exceeding 90 degrees about 87 days per year. The highest temperature on record is 110 degrees F on August 18, 1909.'

1. Stay Hydrated - The CDC recommends drinking anywhere from 16 - 32 ounces of cool water for every hour you spend in the heat.

2. Find Some Shade - Whether you find a tree or bring along an umbrella or a pop-up tent, shade makes a huge difference. Of course, a cabana boy fanning you with a large palm leaf would be good, too!

3. Take a Dip - Is there anything more refreshing than taking a swim during the summer? Whether it's a pool, lake, or even running through the sprinkler, it'll cool you down fast. Just make sure to wear sunscreen!

4. Try to Avoid Peak Heat - If you can schedule your activity for the morning before the full heat of the day or when the sun is finally going down, do it! And don't forget to make sure your ceiling fans are rotating counterclockwise.

5. Wet Towels - Keep damp towels in a cooler or even better, freeze paper towels and take them with you. When you get hot, apply these to your neck and wrists. You'll instantly feel much cooler. And if you can find it, try Florida Water. We used this during travel ball and it really works! A spray bottle filled with chilled water is nice, too!

6. Choose Lightweight, Light-Colored, Loose Fitting Clothing - Trust me on this, darker colors get hotter faster and you certainly don't want to be caught wearing a wool blend in 90+ degree heat. Opt for breathable cotton fabrics that fit loosely and allow your body room to breathe and regulate its temperature.

7. Chill Your Lotions - You'll thank me for this one. There's nothing more soothing than smoothing on some nice cool sunscreen!

8. Wear a Hat - Don't wear just any hat though... I've found that a close-fitting baseball cap only makes me hotter. You want to find something with a wide enough brim that will protect your face, neck, and ears so you don't get a sunburn!

9. Pace Yourself - If you're working or playing outside in the heat and you're not used to it, make sure you limit your time outdoors. Later, as you become acclimated, you can increase your time in the heat.

10. Take a Drive - Even if you don't have A/C in your vehicle, roll your windows down and enjoy the breeze!