New Orleans, LA – A widespread and dangerous cold outbreak is set to grip Louisiana and neighboring states tonight, with forecasters warning that wind chills could fall to near zero, creating hazardous conditions across much of the region.
According to the National Weather Service, an Extreme Cold Warning goes into effect Sunday at 6 p.m. and remains in place until noon Tuesday, covering north, central, and south Louisiana, as well as parts of Arkansas, southeast Oklahoma, and east Texas. A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect across parts of south Louisiana until 6 p.m. Sunday, before conditions worsen overnight.
In south Louisiana, affected parishes include East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, West Feliciana, Iberville, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena, and surrounding areas. Cities such as Baton Rouge, Plaquemine, Port Allen, Brusly, Zachary, Denham Springs, and Greensburg are expected to see wind chills as low as 6 degrees by Monday morning.
Farther north, the warning extends through Shreveport, Bossier City, Natchitoches, Ruston, Monroe, Texarkana, and into portions of south-central and southwest Arkansas, where temperatures near zero are possible.
Forecasters warn that frostbite and hypothermia can occur quickly on exposed skin. Extended freezing conditions may also lead to burst water pipes, especially in older homes or uninsulated buildings.
Residents are urged to dress in multiple layers, including hats, gloves, and face coverings, and to keep pets indoors whenever possible. Outdoor animals should have warm, dry shelter and unfrozen water. Officials also recommend wrapping pipes or allowing faucets to drip slowly.
Those without heat or shelter can call 211 or visit getagameplan.org or smeaa.org to locate warming shelters. Travelers should use caution, particularly overnight and early morning.
Temperatures are expected to gradually improve later Tuesday.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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