New Orleans, LA – Residents across southeast Louisiana and coastal Mississippi are being urged to take immediate precautions as an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect through 10 a.m. Sunday, bringing unseasonably cold temperatures and gusty winds to the Gulf Coast.
According to the National Weather Service in New Orleans, wind chills are expected to drop as low as 11 to 13 degrees, a rare and potentially dangerous cold level for the region. The warning includes New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Slidell, Houma, Thibodaux, Gulfport, Biloxi, Pascagoula, and Grand Isle, along with dozens of surrounding communities.
In addition to the cold, a Wind Advisory remains in effect until midnight Saturday, with north winds of 15 to 25 mph and gusts up to 35 mph. These winds may blow around unsecured objects, down tree limbs, and cause isolated power outages, while also making temperatures feel significantly colder.
Weather officials warn that frostbite and hypothermia can occur if unprotected skin is exposed, particularly during overnight and early morning hours. The extended freeze also increases the risk of ruptured or frozen water pipes, especially in homes with exposed plumbing.
Residents are advised to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outdoors when possible. Officials recommend wrapping or draining outdoor pipes, allowing faucets to drip, and bringing pets indoors overnight. Drivers of high-profile vehicles should use caution due to strong crosswinds, especially on bridges and open roadways.
Emergency officials also urge residents to check on elderly neighbors, family members, and anyone without reliable heating, and to follow safe heating practices, avoiding the use of grills or generators indoors.
Temperatures are expected to slowly rebound later Sunday morning, but officials warn that lingering cold conditions may persist into the day.
