Lake Charles, LA — Portions of Louisiana and southeast Texas remain under an extreme cold warning this morning, with freezing wind chills as low as 10°F.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the extreme cold warning will expire at 9 a.m. today, but a cold weather advisory will take effect from 6 p.m. tonight until 9 a.m. Thursday. The advisory affects cities including Lake Charles, Lafayette, Alexandria, and Beaumont, where temperatures could produce wind chills as low as 20°F.
The NWS warns that exposed skin can develop frostbite within minutes in these conditions, and hypothermia remains a significant risk. Prolonged freezing temperatures could also cause water pipes to rupture.
Residents are advised to dress in layers, wear hats and gloves, and minimize time outdoors. Pets should remain indoors or have adequate shelter with access to unfrozen water. Use portable heaters carefully, ensuring proper ventilation, and avoid using generators or grills indoors.
Drivers should prepare for icy roads, and neighbors are encouraged to check on vulnerable individuals. Conditions are expected to improve slightly after Thursday morning, but precautions remain critical during this cold snap.
