Shreveport, Louisiana – Travel across the ArkLaTex could become impossible beginning Friday evening as a powerful winter storm brings a dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and significant ice across four states through the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Shreveport, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 6 p.m. Friday through noon Sunday for portions of southwest and south central Arkansas, northwest and north central Louisiana, southeast Oklahoma, and northeast Texas. Snow and sleet accumulations of up to four inches are expected north of Interstate 30, with one to three inches possible between Interstate 20 and Interstate 30. Ice accumulations between one-third of an inch and one inch are possible between U.S. Highway 82 and U.S. Highway 84, with the highest ice totals expected near the Interstate 20 corridor.
Cities including Shreveport, Bossier City, Texarkana, Monroe, Ruston, Longview, Tyler, Marshall, El Dorado, Magnolia, Minden, and Mount Pleasant are expected to see rapidly deteriorating road conditions Friday night. Bridges and overpasses along Interstate 20, Interstate 30, U.S. Highway 59, and U.S. Highway 80 are especially vulnerable. Heavy ice on trees and power lines could result in widespread and long-lasting power outages.
Emergency officials urge residents to delay all non-essential travel and prepare for extended power disruptions. Drivers who must travel should carry food, water, blankets, and a flashlight and check road conditions through 511 before leaving.
The winter storm warning remains in effect through Sunday midday, and additional advisories may be issued as conditions evolve across the ArkLaTex.
