Louisiana – Frost coats windshields and rooftops across southwest Louisiana as the morning begins at the freezing mark. The air feels calm but crisp, a rare winter reminder before a dramatic shift unfolds heading into 2026.
According to the National Weather Service, Lake Charles started the morning near 32 degrees with widespread frost reported before sunrise. Sunshine quickly takes over today, allowing temperatures to rebound into the low 60s by afternoon. Early travel may feel slick on bridges and shaded roads until the frost burns off.
Conditions turn sharply warmer on New Year’s Day. Mostly sunny skies push highs near 70, setting up an unusually mild start to 2026. Southerly winds strengthen Thursday night, bringing a noticeable change in how the air feels across Calcasieu Parish.
By Friday, warmth peaks. Afternoon highs surge into the mid to upper 70s, with gusty southwest winds reaching 25 to 30 mph at times. High-profile vehicles on I-10 and elevated roadways may feel those crosswinds, especially during peak travel hours.
Friday night stays mild and breezy, with lows only dipping into the mid-50s. The first weekend of 2026 remains warm and dry. Saturday brings abundant sunshine and highs in the low 70s, followed by a cooler but still comfortable Saturday night. Sunday stays bright and mild, with highs near 69 and light winds.
While winter grips much of the country, southwest Louisiana flips the script with a rapid warm-up. Still, timing matters early today as frost lingers.
Drivers should slow down this morning and secure loose outdoor items ahead of Friday’s gusty winds. Traveling for New Year’s plans or the weekend? Tell us what conditions you’re seeing around Lake Charles.
Five Day Outlook for Lake Charles, Louisiana
Today: Frost early, sunny, high near 62°F
Tonight: Clear, low near 42°F
New Year’s Day: Mostly sunny, high near 70°F
Friday: Mostly sunny and windy, high near 76°F
Saturday: Sunny, high near 73°F
