New Orleans is no stranger to unpredictable weather, but this week’s forecast is on another level. Residents should brace for drastic temperature swings, severe storms, and a sharp drop into freezing conditions by midweek. What starts as a mild and sunny week will take a dramatic turn, with gusty thunderstorms and bitter cold making their way into the city.
Meteorologists warn that a powerful Arctic air mass is moving south, bringing a dangerous mix of rain, wind, and subfreezing temperatures that could impact travel, infrastructure, and daily life. For a city accustomed to mild winters, this rapid change could catch many off guard—so staying prepared is key.
How Will This Week’s Weather Unfold?
The weather in New Orleans will shift dramatically each day, with major temperature drops and varying conditions. Here’s what to expect:
- Tuesday, February 18 – Winds will pick up, and clouds will increase throughout the day. The high will rise to 62°F (17°C), but the evening will stay mild at 52°F (11°C).
- Wednesday, February 19 – A major weather shift begins. The morning brings heavy rain and thunderstorms, with gusty winds and possible lightning. The day’s high will be 57°F (14°C), but don’t be fooled—by nightfall, the temperature will drop to a shocking 33°F (0°C).
- Thursday, February 20 – Cold and brisk, with temperatures barely reaching 48°F (9°C). Overnight lows will hit 31°F (-1°C), marking one of the coldest nights of the season.
- Friday, February 21 – Chilly but sunny. Expect a high of 48°F (9°C), while nighttime temperatures will creep up slightly to 43°F (6°C).
- Saturday, February 22 – Clouds return, and so does the chance of afternoon showers. The high will be 58°F (14°C) with overnight temperatures around 48°F (9°C).
- Sunday, February 23 – A much-needed warm-up! Sunshine will return, pushing temperatures up to 65°F (18°C), though the evening will stay cool at 46°F (8°C).
Why Is This Happening? The Science Behind This Wild Weather
The drastic change in New Orleans’ weather is being driven by a strong Arctic air mass plunging south from Canada. As this cold air collides with the warmer, moisture-rich air over Louisiana, it creates unstable conditions that trigger storms and rapid temperature drops.
The biggest concern is Wednesday’s thunderstorms, which could bring strong winds, heavy rain, and a sharp, fast-moving cold front. Once this front moves through, temperatures will freefall overnight, leading to freezing conditions by Thursday morning.
While freezing temperatures aren’t common in New Orleans, they do happen a few times each winter. However, this kind of rapid, extreme shift can be dangerous, especially for those unprepared for the cold.
How Will This Impact New Orleans?
The combination of rain, wind, and freezing temperatures could cause several problems across the city:
- Slippery Roads & Travel Delays – Rain on Wednesday morning will make roads slick, and freezing temperatures overnight could create patchy ice, especially on bridges and overpasses.
- Cold Weather Hazards – With overnight lows dropping below freezing, pipes could freeze, and homeless populations and outdoor pets will be at risk.
- Power Outages Possible – Gusty winds during storms may bring down trees and power lines, leading to scattered outages across the city.
How to Stay Safe and Prepare for the Weather Shift
With such a rapid change in conditions, now is the time to prepare before the storms and cold hit. Here’s what you should do:
- Layer Up – Wednesday will feel like two different seasons in one day. Dress in layers so you can adjust as temperatures drop.
- Have Rain Gear Ready – Wednesday’s storms could bring heavy downpours and strong winds. Carry an umbrella and wear waterproof clothing if heading out.
- Protect Pipes, Pets & Plants – Temperatures will dip below freezing Wednesday night. Cover or insulate exposed pipes, bring pets indoors, and protect delicate plants from frost.
- Be Cautious on the Roads – Wet and possibly icy roads could make travel hazardous Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Avoid unnecessary trips during peak weather conditions.
- Prepare for Power Outages – Charge your phones, flashlights, and backup batteries in case of storm-related power outages.
When Will New Orleans Warm Up Again?
The good news is that the worst of the cold will be short-lived. After a freezing Thursday and a chilly Friday, temperatures will gradually warm up heading into the weekend. By Sunday, February 23, highs will reach 65°F (18°C), and the week following will likely see a return to more typical late-winter warmth.
However, don’t expect the rain to go away completely—another storm system could be on the horizon for the last days of February.
Final Thoughts: Be Prepared for a Wild Week!
New Orleans is about to experience one of the most unpredictable weeks of winter, with warm, breezy conditions giving way to thunderstorms, and then an Arctic blast dropping temperatures below freezing.
Stay ahead of the weather by keeping an eye on forecasts, dressing for the cold, and taking precautions before the storms hit. The city is no stranger to crazy weather, but this week’s dramatic swings are sure to keep everyone on their toes.
