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NEWS RELEASE

JEFFERSON PARISH, LOUISIANA

June 28, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HEAT ADVISORY AND EXCESSIVE HEAT WATCH ISSUED FOR JEFFERSON PARISH THIS WEEKEND

JEFFERSON, LA – The National Weather Service has issued a Heat Advisory for Jefferson Parish tomorrow, Saturday, June 29, 2024 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and an Excessive Heat Watch on Sunday, June 30, 2024. Citizens should remain weather aware and take precautionary measures to avoid becoming a victim of heat exhaustion and related illnesses. 

Heat-related illnesses, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke, happen when the body is not able to properly cool itself. While the body normally cools itself by sweating, during extreme heat, this might not be enough. In these cases, a person’s body temperature rises faster than it can cool itself down. This can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs. Some factors that might increase your risk of developing a heat-related illness include: high levels of humidity, obesity, fever, dehydration, prescription drug use, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn and alcohol use.

Heat-related illnesses can be prevented by:

  • Wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing
  • Staying indoors in air conditioning and limiting outdoor activities
  • Avoid strenuous activities
  • Wearing sunscreen
  • Staying hydrated
  • Avoiding heavy meals, alcohol and sugary beverages
  • NEVER leaving children or pets in cars. Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with an open window.

Jefferson Parish libraries are open this weekend and can be used for residents to get out of the heat. The Jefferson Parish Library system consists of two large regional libraries and seven branches on each side of the Mississippi River. For library locations and hours, visit www.JPLibrary.net.

During high temperatures, it is important to monitor those at high risk, including infants and young children, people 65 or older, those who are overweight, people who overexert during work or exercise and people who are physically ill (especially with heart disease or high blood pressure), or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia or poor circulation.

It is also important to protect your four-legged friends during hot weather months. Jefferson Protection & Animal Welfare Services recommends the following:

  • Animals’ paws are just as tender as your feet, so please check the pavement with your hand; if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Pet shoes or booties help keep their paws safe.
  • Even though you and your pets need exercise, it is important to avoid going out during the hottest part of the day.
  • Much like humans, animals can also get sunburned; monitor your pet for burns (short- and light-colored fur). Apply animal-safe sunblock, if necessary.
  • A pet’s fur may actually help keep them cool in the hotter months, so reconsider before cutting off all their fur, but keep them properly groomed.
  • Some pets may be more susceptible to heat (bulldogs, pugs, etc.); monitor these breeds for breathing issues.
  • Bring water when going on a long walk, even in the earliest or latest part of the day.
  • DO NOT leave your pet in a hot vehicle.

For more information about Jefferson Parish, visit www.JeffParish.net. Residents can also receive regular updates by following the Parish on social media (@JeffParishGov) or by texting JPALERT or JPNOTICIAS to 888-777.  

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