Louisiana – Frost glimmers on windshields across Lake Charles this morning as calm air traps a sharp December chill near the ground. The cold feels brief, but it signals a changing pattern that turns wetter by midweek.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures dropped to the mid-30s early, allowing areas of frost before sunrise. Drivers should stay cautious on bridges and shaded roads, where slick spots can form quickly. Conditions improve fast once the sun rises.
Skies turn partly cloudy today, and highs climb near 60 degrees. That warmth helps outdoor plans but also adds moisture to the air. Tonight stays milder, with lows near 50 and increasing cloud cover.
Wednesday brings a noticeable shift. Humidity rises, and scattered showers become possible by afternoon. Roads may turn damp at times, especially during peak travel hours along I-10 and major surface streets. Patchy fog could develop later, reducing visibility near low-lying areas and waterways.
The most impactful weather arrives Thursday, December 18th. Showers and a few thunderstorms become more likely by morning, with rain continuing through midday. Brief heavier downpours may slow traffic and reduce visibility. Winds increase slightly, adding to travel concerns during the late morning and afternoon.
Behind the rain, conditions settle Thursday night. Skies partially clear, and temperatures fall into the mid-40s. While a freeze is not expected, cooler air reinforces the winter theme as the workweek wraps up.
Friday turns bright and comfortable, with sunshine and highs near the low 60s. The weekend looks even better. Saturday and Sunday trend mostly sunny and warm, with highs climbing into the mid-to-upper 70s. That’s welcome news for holiday errands, outdoor plans, and early Christmas travel.
Meteorologists say this frost-to-rain pattern is an early sign of winter’s back-and-forth grip along the Gulf Coast. Keep layers handy and rain gear close.
Seeing frost or fog where you live this morning? Let us know what conditions look like near you.
5-Day Outlook – Lake Charles, LA
- Today: Frost early, partly sunny, high near 60°
- Wednesday: Shower chance, humid, high near 68°
- Thursday: Showers and storms possible, high near 77°
- Friday: Sunny, cooler, high near 63°
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, warm, high near 75°
