Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Drivers across southeast Louisiana could encounter slick bridges and hazardous road conditions late this weekend as a round of wintry weather threatens areas not accustomed to ice, including the Baton Rouge metro and surrounding parishes.
According to the National Weather Service in New Orleans, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Saturday night through Sunday afternoon for portions of southeast Louisiana and southwest Mississippi. Ice accumulations around one-tenth of an inch are expected, with localized areas possibly reaching up to one-quarter inch, enough to create dangerous travel conditions on untreated roads.
In Louisiana, the watch includes East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, Iberville, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena, Washington, Livingston, and northern Tangipahoa parishes. Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Walker, Plaquemine, Port Allen, and Bogalusa are among the communities that could see light icing, especially on elevated surfaces such as overpasses and bridges. Across the state line, Amite, Pike, Walthall, and Wilkinson counties in Mississippi are also included.
While snowfall is not expected, even minor ice accumulation can significantly impact travel in the region. Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary driving late Saturday night into Sunday, monitor road conditions closely, and prepare for possible delays. The National Weather Service notes that updates or advisories may follow as the event draws closer and confidence in impacts increases.
