Shreveport, Louisiana – A growing threat of freezing rain could bring dangerous travel conditions and possible power outages across the ArkLaTex this weekend, with impacts likely beginning Friday evening and continuing through Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, confidence is increasing that freezing rain will affect much of the region, especially along and near the Interstate 20 corridor. Forecast guidance shows a 60 to 70 percent chance of at least one-tenth of an inch of ice accumulation, with isolated areas potentially exceeding a quarter inch. Even light icing at those levels can make roads extremely slick and stress trees and power lines.
The highest risk zone includes Shreveport-Bossier City, Tyler, Longview, Texarkana, and nearby communities, with slightly lower but still notable probabilities extending south toward Natchitoches, Lufkin, and parts of central Louisiana. Elevated roadways, bridges, and overpasses are expected to become hazardous first, increasing the risk for accidents and travel disruptions.
Officials warn that power outages are possible if ice accumulates on lines and trees, particularly if freezing rain persists for several hours. Residents are urged to finalize preparations now, avoid unnecessary travel during icing periods, and prepare for potential outages by charging devices and securing alternate heat sources.
Freezing rain chances extend through Saturday night, and additional advisories or warnings are likely as confidence in timing and impacts continues to increase.
