Baton Rouge, LA – Emergency officials across Louisiana are urging residents to begin preparing today for potential winter hazards, including occasional freezing rain that can lead to dangerous ice storms. While snow is rare in the state, the National Weather Service (NWS) warns that even brief periods of ice can snap branches, damage powerlines, and shut down major highways across South, Central, and North Louisiana.
According to NOAA, a thin glaze of ice is enough to overload weakened limbs and create hazardous travel conditions on roads such as I-10, I-12, I-49, and I-20. Louisiana’s dense tree coverage, widespread pine stands, and humid winter air can intensify the effects of freezing rain. With temperatures expected to fluctuate at times this season, officials say today is the best time for residents to begin winter readiness efforts.
According to the National Weather Service, residents should start by trimming weak or damaged branches around homes, driveways, and walkways. These limbs often break first once ice begins to build up. NOAA also advises drivers not to raise windshield wipers before storms, as wipers may freeze to the glass and break; keeping them lowered and covered is recommended.
Emergency managers encourage families to stock at least a week’s supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and essential prescriptions. Ice storms can disrupt travel and trigger prolonged power outages, particularly in wooded neighborhoods and rural parishes. Officials also caution residents not to park vehicles beneath trees, where ice-covered limbs may fall unexpectedly.
To prepare for potential outages, residents are urged to fully charge phones, flashlights, power banks, and essential devices today. Homeowners relying on generators should safely store extra gasoline and run a test to ensure equipment is functioning properly. Having rock salt or ice melt on hand can also help prevent slip hazards around steps and walkways.
“Even occasional ice storms can cause serious disruption across Louisiana,” the NWS said. “Preparing today is the best way to stay safe this winter.”
