Louisiana is in for a wild week of weather—and if you’re not prepared, you could find yourself soaked, frozen, or stuck in a dangerous situation. A stoarm system is moving in Tuesday night, bringing heavy rain, the possibility of thunderstorms, and even a slight risk of flooding. But that’s not all.
Once the rain clears out, temperatures will drop fast—plunging Louisiana into an unseasonably cold stretch of weather, with freezing temperatures expected across much of the state through Friday morning. The mix of wet roads, rapidly falling temperatures, and possible ice means a higher risk for travel problems and even home damage if precautions aren’t taken.
Tuesday Night: Heavy Rain and Storms Move In
By Tuesday evening, a powerful system will push into Louisiana, soaking much of the state with steady rain. Most areas will see 1-2 inches of rainfall, but some locations could get even more. While this may not sound extreme, it could cause street flooding in areas with poor drainage, especially in low-lying neighborhoods.
There’s also a chance of thunderstorms, particularly in southern Louisiana. The Storm Prediction Center has indicated a marginal risk of severe weather, meaning some storms could produce strong winds or even an isolated tornado. This risk is highest in areas like Lake Charles, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans.
Key Risks for Tuesday Night:
- Heavy rain leading to localized flooding—watch for ponding on roads and avoid driving through standing water.
- Thunderstorms with strong winds—secure any loose outdoor items and stay indoors during storms.
- Possible isolated tornadoes—have a safety plan in case a warning is issued in your area.
Wednesday & Thursday: The Cold Moves In—And It’s Brutal
If you think the rain is bad, just wait until Wednesday night. After the storm moves out, a blast of Arctic air will push in from the north, bringing some of the coldest temperatures Louisiana has seen this season.
By Wednesday night into Thursday morning, temperatures will plummet well below freezing. In some northern parts of the state, like Shreveport and Monroe, temperatures could drop into the teens
City-by-City Breakdown:
- New Orleans: Rain ends early Wednesday; temperatures drop to 33°F (0°C) overnight.
- Baton Rouge: Expect morning showers Wednesday, then temperatures free-fall to 25°F (-4°C) by night.
- Shreveport: A bitter cold blast, with lows as low as 17°F (-8°C) by Wednesday night.
- Lafayette & Lake Charles: Cold and windy, with lows around 26-27°F (-3°C).
For a state that rarely sees extended freezing temperatures, this sudden Arctic blast could have serious consequences.
What Freezing Weather Means for Louisiana Residents
Louisiana homes and infrastructure aren’t built for long periods of freezing weather, so when temperatures drop below 32°F for extended periods, there are real risks:
Pipes Can Burst – When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, causing pipes to crack or break. This can lead to expensive home repairs and major water damage.
Icy Roads – Bridges and overpasses freeze first, so even if streets look clear, black ice could be present in some areas, especially during the early morning hours.
Pets & Livestock at Risk – Outdoor animals need proper shelter and warmth to survive freezing nights.
Heating Emergencies – Many homes rely on space heaters in extreme cold, but improper use can lead to house fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
How to Stay Safe During Louisiana’s Weather Whiplash
Before Tuesday Night’s Rain:
- Check gutters and storm drains to ensure they’re clear.
- Avoid parking in low-lying areas prone to flooding.
- Have a plan in place in case of strong storms or power outages.
Before the Freeze Hits:
- Protect your pipes: Let faucets drip overnight, wrap exposed pipes, and know how to shut off your water in case of a burst pipe.
- Bring pets indoors or provide insulated shelters with blankets.
- Be cautious on roads—even if ice isn’t visible, it can still be there.
- Check on elderly neighbors who may struggle with the cold.
Final Thoughts: This Weather Shift is No Joke
Louisiana is about to experience two extreme weather events back-to-back—heavy rain followed by an intense freeze.
While the state is used to unpredictable weather, this combination of flooding risks and freezing conditions makes for a dangerous situation. Now is the time to take action—whether it’s securing your home, checking in on vulnerable friends and family, or simply planning to stay off the roads during the worst conditions.
