Temperatures will be significantly cooler starting mid-week in Southwest Louisiana, but forecasters are warning of dry, windy weather Tuesday until the cold front arrives.

The National Weather Service’s Lake Charles office has issued a Fire Weather Watch — issued when the combination of dry fuels and weather conditions support extreme fire danger — which will go into effect on Wednesday.

Warm and humid conditions are expected through Tuesday afternoon with cooler and drier weather taking over on Wednesday.

Winds of 15-20 mph with gusts up to 25 mph are expected on Tuesday with humidity at about 20 percent.

Extreme grassland fire danger is possible.

“Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly,” the agency said. “Outdoor burning is not recommended.”

On Wednesday, temperatures are expected to drop into the low 60s by day with temperatures as low as 42 degrees at night.

A slow warming trend is expected to commence by Saturday.

“No significant rainfall is expected this week, not helping the ongoing developing drought,” said senior meteorologist Donovan Landreneau.