Louisiana – Headlights fade quickly along darkened roadways across southwest Louisiana this morning as dense fog blankets Lake Charles and surrounding communities. Visibility drops to a quarter mile or less in spots, making early travel especially hazardous near waterways, low-lying areas, and open stretches of highway.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, a Dense Fog Advisory remains in effect through early morning for much of south-central and southwest Louisiana, as well as portions of southeast Texas. Drivers along I-10, Highway 14, and Highway 171 should expect sudden visibility changes, especially near the Calcasieu River and coastal marshes. Motorists are urged to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and increase following distance.
Fog begins lifting later this morning, but the Weather pattern remains active. Warm, humid air pushes temperatures toward the upper 70s, continuing January 2026’s stretch of springlike warmth. Clouds thicken through the day, and scattered showers develop by afternoon.
Rain chances increase tonight and Friday as a stronger system moves in. Showers and thunderstorms become more widespread, with brief heavy rain possible. Ponding on roads may develop quickly during heavier downpours, especially in poor drainage areas. Travel could slow during peak hours, so plan extra time and avoid water-covered roads.
By Saturday, cooler air starts filtering into southwest Louisiana. Rain tapers, clouds break, and temperatures trend downward. Saturday highs settle into the low 60s, with a noticeable change in the feel of the air. Sunday turns drier and cooler, with highs near the upper 50s and brisk north winds.
That cooler pattern sticks around into early next week. Any lingering moisture dries quickly, but early mornings feel crisp for the first time in days. Additional advisories may be issued as conditions evolve.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Lake Charles, Louisiana
- Today: Dense fog early, chance of showers later; high near 78
- Friday: Showers and thunderstorms; high near 78
- Saturday: Showers early, then cooler; high near 62
- Sunday: Partly sunny and cooler; high near 58
- Monday: Mostly sunny, mild; high near 54
