Louisiana – Warm sunlight spreads quickly across southwest Louisiana this morning, softening the chill and drying out roads. By tonight and into the weekend, that comfort fades as cooler air slides in, setting up colder nights and a noticeable winter shift before the MLK Day holiday.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, temperatures surge to around 70 degrees today under sunny skies. Southwest winds increase through the afternoon, gusting near 25 mph at times. Conditions stay dry for most of the day, though a brief shower is possible late tonight as winds turn north.
Saturday brings a clear change. Highs fall into the mid-50s with a cooler breeze, making it feel much different than today. Clouds thin during the afternoon, but temperatures slide quickly after sunset. Lows dip to near 32 degrees Saturday night, cold enough for frost on exposed surfaces.
Sunday stays bright but cool. Afternoon highs reach the mid-50s, while shaded areas remain chilly. With clear skies and calm winds Sunday night, temperatures fall into the mid-30s. Bridges and elevated roadways, including stretches of I-10, may cool faster than surrounding pavement.
MLK Day Monday offers improvement. Sunshine returns with highs near 63 degrees, though the morning starts cool. By Tuesday, highs settle into the mid-50s as clouds slowly increase. Midweek trends point toward warmer air and increasing rain chances across southern Louisiana.
Residents should enjoy today’s warmth but prepare for colder nights ahead. Protect sensitive plants and plan extra time for early-morning travel this weekend. Feeling the temperature swing already? Tell us how different it felt stepping outside today.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Lake Charles, Louisiana
Today: Sunny and warm, breezy, high near 70
Saturday: Partly sunny and cooler, high near 54
Sunday: Sunny and cool, high near 54
MLK Day Monday: Sunny and milder, high near 63
Tuesday: Mostly sunny, seasonable, high near 56
