If You Think This Summer Has Been Unusually Hot, You’re Not Wrong
If you live in the Shreveport-Bossier City area and you think that this summer has been hotter than normal, you're right!
Shreveport-Bossier City has experienced a whopping 25 100° plus days so far this summer.
In fact, KTAL Meteorologist Todd Warren says that as it stands right now, this summer is the second hottest summer in Shreveport since they started keeping records in the 1870s. Brings a whole new meaning to the term hot girl summer, doesn't it?
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.
June 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°
August 3, 2022: 100°
August 8, 2022: 100°
August 15, 2022: 100°
The average high temperature for the month of July in Shreveport is 94.3°. The average high for August is 95.5°. So yes, we are experiencing a hotter than usual summer. Our average high temperature for the month of July was 98.5°. And just in case you were wondering, the highest temperature ever recorded in Shreveport in July was a whopping 108° on July 22, 2018.
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.'
What are the top things you can do to beat the heat?
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!
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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.
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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.
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10. Take a Drive - Even if you don't have A/C in your vehicle, roll your windows down and enjoy the breeze!