Lake Charles, LA – A hard freeze is gripping southwest and south-central Louisiana early Monday, prompting Freeze Warnings and Cold Weather Advisories across a wide portion of the region, according to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles.
Forecasters say temperatures dropped into the low 20s overnight across parts of central Louisiana, with expected lows between 21 and 23 degrees in areas under a hard Freeze Warning. Farther south and west, temperatures are expected to bottom out between 26 and 28 degrees. Wind chills as low as 15 degrees are also possible, increasing the risk of cold-related injuries.
The Freeze Warning remains in effect until 9 a.m. CST Monday, while the Cold Weather Advisory continues until 10 a.m. CST. Impacted areas include Alexandria, Pineville, Leesville, Opelousas, Eunice, Ville Platte, De Ridder, Lake Charles, Lafayette, Crowley, Jennings, and Morgan City, along with nearby communities in southeast Texas such as Beaumont, Port Arthur, Orange, and Jasper.
Officials warn that exposure to these conditions could lead to frostbite or hypothermia if precautions are not taken. The cold temperatures also pose a threat to crops, sensitive vegetation, outdoor pets, and unprotected plumbing, especially in areas experiencing a hard freeze.
Residents are urged to dress in warm layers, limit time outdoors, and bring pets inside. Those using space heaters are reminded to follow safety guidelines and never operate generators or grills indoors. Authorities also encourage residents to check on elderly neighbors and anyone without adequate heating.
While temperatures are expected to gradually rise later Monday morning, lingering cold conditions could persist into the afternoon. Drivers heading out early Monday should also be alert for icy patches on bridges and elevated roadways.
