Louisiana – Damp air hangs low over southwest Louisiana this morning as fog softens streetlights and moisture beads on windshields. That moisture becomes a bigger problem soon, with colder air advancing toward the Gulf Coast and setting the stage for ice.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon. Freezing rain and light ice accumulations are possible as colder air undercuts lingering moisture. Even small amounts of ice could turn bridges, overpasses, and elevated roadways slick and dangerous.
Today starts mild, with temperatures near 60 degrees and patchy dense fog reducing visibility at times. Drivers should slow down during the morning commute, especially along I-10, Highway 14, and Highway 171. Visibility may drop below a mile in spots before improving later this morning.
Rain chances increase Friday into Friday night as clouds thicken. Highs remain in the mid-60s, but colder air presses south by Saturday. Temperatures fall sharply, dropping toward freezing by Saturday night. That timing raises concern for rain changing to freezing rain, especially north and west of Lake Charles.
Saturday appears unsettled, with widespread showers and temperatures sliding through the 30s by evening. Ice accumulation between a light glaze and a tenth of an inch is possible in parts of southwest and central Louisiana. Power outages, tree damage, and hazardous travel cannot be ruled out if ice develops more efficiently.
Sunday stays cold and gray, with lingering showers early and highs struggling to reach the upper 30s. Winds increase, adding a biting chill. Conditions improve by early next week as skies clear and temperatures slowly recover.
Prepare now. Avoid unnecessary travel during icy periods, protect pipes, and check on neighbors. If you’re traveling this weekend, plan alternate routes and extra time. Are you seeing fog or drizzle where you are this morning? Share conditions from your part of southwest Louisiana.
Five-Day Outlook for Lake Charles, LA
- Friday: Chance of showers; high near 65°F
- Saturday: Showers likely, turning colder; high near 51°F
- Sunday: Chance of showers, cold; high near 38°F
- Monday: Sunny and cold; high near 41°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny; high near 49°F
