If you thought Louisiana was safe from winter’s grip, think again. A brutal Arctic blast is moving in, sending temperatures plunging and wind chills into the danger zone. By tonight, some areas could feel as cold as -2°F to -10°F, making this one of the coldest nights of the season.
The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory for much of the state, warning that exposed skin could develop frostbite in less than 30 minutes. This type of cold isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous if you’re not prepared.
What’s Happening Right Now?
Cold air is already settling in, and it’s about to get even worse. Gusty winds will make it feel much colder than the actual temperature, and anyone stepping outside without proper layers will feel the sting immediately.
Here’s where things stand across Louisiana this afternoon:
- New Orleans, LA – 54°F (12°C), cloudy, rain expected, dropping to 29°F (-1°C) tonight
- Baton Rouge, LA – 42°F (5°C), breezy, plunging to 24°F (-4°C) tonight
- Shreveport, LA – 30°F (-1°C), partly cloudy, low of 18°F (-8°C) tonight
- Lafayette, LA – 40°F (4°C), breezy, dropping to 25°F (-4°C) tonight
- Lake Charles, LA – 39°F (4°C), turning colder with a low of 26°F (-3°C) tonight
No matter where you are in the state, you’ll want to grab your warmest coat—it’s about to get freezing!
How Long Will This Cold Last?
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Tonight (Wednesday Night – Early Thursday):
- The coldest period of this freeze.
- Wind chills will make it feel below zero in some areas.
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Thursday Morning:
- If you’re heading out early, bundle up! It will still feel dangerously cold.
- Roads could have icy patches, especially on bridges and overpasses.
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Thursday Afternoon – Evening:
- Slight improvement, but it will still feel colder than usual.
-
Friday and the Weekend:
- A gradual warm-up begins, with temperatures climbing back into the 40s and 50s.
Biggest Concerns: What You Need to Watch For
Bitter Wind Chills – Even though the actual temperature might not seem that bad, strong winds will make it feel MUCH colder—in some places, as low as -10°F.
Frostbite & Hypothermia Risk – At these temperatures, frostbite can happen in less than 30 minutes on exposed skin. If you’re outside for too long without proper clothing, hypothermia can set in.
Icy Roads & Black Ice – There’s not much snow expected, but any leftover moisture could freeze on roads overnight. Be especially careful on bridges and overpasses.
Pets & Livestock at Risk – If you’re cold, they’re cold. Bring pets inside, and make sure outdoor animals have proper shelter and unfrozen water.
Power Outages Possible – With temperatures dropping so low, heaters will be running full blast, which could put stress on the power grid.
How to Stay Safe in This Cold Snap
Limit Time Outside – It’s Just Too Cold!
- If you must go outside, cover every inch of skin.
- Wear multiple layers, thick gloves, a hat, and insulated boots.
Avoid Driving Late Tonight & Early Tomorrow
- Any moisture left on the roads could freeze into black ice.
- Bridges and overpasses will freeze first—take it slow.
Check on Elderly Neighbors & Family Members
- Make sure they have heat, warm clothing, and food.
- Extreme cold can be dangerous, especially for older adults and young children.
Prepare for Possible Power Outages
- Charge your phone and have flashlights ready.
- Stock up on blankets and warm clothing just in case.
- NEVER use a generator or grill inside your home—they produce deadly carbon monoxide!
Keep Pets Indoors
- If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
- If pets must stay outside, make sure they have warm, DRY shelter and unfrozen water.
