Lake Charles, Louisiana – A rare and dangerous cold snap is set to impact southwest Louisiana this weekend, with Lake Charles and surrounding communities facing a heightened frostbite and hypothermia risk Saturday night into early Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, a Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from Saturday evening through midday Sunday for much of southwest and south-central Louisiana. Wind chills are expected to drop into the mid to upper teens, cold enough to cause frostbite and hypothermia if exposed skin is left unprotected for extended periods.
While these temperatures may be routine farther north, officials stress they are especially dangerous in Louisiana, where homes, infrastructure, and residents are less acclimated to prolonged cold. The greatest risk in the Lake Charles area will occur overnight Saturday, when wind chills fall to their lowest levels and outdoor shelter is limited.
Cities including Lake Charles, Sulphur, Westlake, Iowa, DeRidder, Jennings, and surrounding parishes could see hazardous conditions for anyone spending time outdoors, including first responders, utility crews, and those without reliable heat. Pets and livestock are also vulnerable in these conditions.
Residents are urged to limit outdoor exposure, dress in layers with hats and gloves, bring pets indoors, and ensure outdoor animals have warm shelter and unfrozen water. Officials also recommend checking on elderly neighbors and using space heaters safely.
The Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect through Sunday morning, with temperatures slowly moderating later Sunday afternoon. Additional cold-related alerts could be issued if conditions worsen or linger longer than expected.
