Lake Charles, Louisiana – A sharp change in weather is expected across southwest Louisiana and southeast Texas early next week as a strong cold front brings a rapid drop in temperatures following an unusually warm weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, temperatures will climb into the upper 70s to lower 80s across the region this weekend, approaching near-record highs in some locations. The warm conditions will end abruptly late Sunday night as a cold front moves south through the area.
Behind the front, temperatures are forecast to fall steadily through Monday, with daytime highs dropping into the 40s and lower 50s. The most significant impact is expected Monday night, when overnight low temperatures approach freezing across portions of central and southwest Louisiana, including Alexandria, Lake Charles, and Lafayette.
Forecasters note that the temperature drop may exceed 30 degrees in less than 24 hours for some locations. While no winter precipitation is expected, the sudden shift to colder conditions may catch residents off guard after several warm days.
In addition to falling temperatures, fog may continue to develop at times, particularly near coastal and marine areas, leading to localized visibility reductions. Rainfall associated with the front is expected to remain light, with totals generally below one-half inch and no freezing precipitation anticipated.
The National Weather Service emphasizes that the primary hazards from this system are the rapid temperature plunge and colder nighttime conditions rather than snow or ice. Residents are encouraged to prepare for colder weather, especially those with outdoor plans, sensitive plants, or pets.
Drivers should remain alert for changing conditions during periods of fog, particularly during the early morning and overnight hours.
Temperatures are expected to gradually moderate later in the week, but cooler-than-normal conditions will persist for several days following the frontal passage.
