State officials have issued urgent warnings as south Louisiana braces for potentially record-breaking snowfall and extended sub-freezing temperatures. Residents may need to shelter in place for at least two days until conditions improve.
Governor Jeff Landry, who returned early from Washington, D.C., after attending President Donald Trump’s inauguration, held a news conference at the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness.
“It’s better to be over-prepared than caught off guard,” Governor Landry advised, encouraging residents to finalize preparations and monitor updates at virtual.la.gov.
The National Weather Service predicts between 5-8 inches of snow along the I-10 and I-12 corridors, with slightly lower levels near coastal areas. Snowfall is expected to begin early Tuesday and last throughout the day.
Jay Grymes, the state climatologist, warned of a “worst-case scenario” that could see more than 10 inches of snow in some areas, marking the most significant winter storm in Louisiana since the 1960s.
“Once we get above that critical 4-inch threshold, that effectively shuts down the state for at least a day or two,” Grymes said.
Widespread icy roads and disruptions to water systems are expected. The governor noted it could take days for the National Guard to deliver supplies to areas with disabled water systems.
New Orleans has already issued precautionary boil water advisories for areas farthest from the city’s east bank water purification plant. Officials also warned that the city’s aging infrastructure and dropping water pressure during freezing conditions could cause further issues.
Ice-related closures will likely begin with Mississippi River bridges and major spans such as the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway and the Atchafalaya Spillway. State transportation secretary Joe Donahue called the event a “very serious situation,” adding that road-clearing efforts will prioritize interstates, U.S. highways, and key alternative routes.
To assist Louisiana, the state of Arkansas is sending snowplows, salting vehicles, and crews to help clear roads. Residents can monitor road conditions and closures at 511la.org.
North Louisiana will face deep freezes through Friday, with wind chills potentially dropping into the single digits. Residents are urged to prepare their homes and protect people, pets, pipes, and plants.
Governor Landry emphasized the importance of safe heating practices, warning against using stoves or ovens to heat homes to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
This storm marks one of the most significant winter weather events in decades, and state officials continue to urge preparedness and caution as conditions develop.