Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana – Calcasieu Parish officials are taking proactive measures in anticipation of winter weather expected to impact the area beginning Monday, January 20, through Thursday, January 23. Sheriff Stitch Guillory emphasized the importance of staying informed, stating, “It is important to remember, just like most weather events, this is a developing and changing situation. Make sure you stay tuned to local weather updates and updates from our Calcasieu officials.”
The National Weather Service has issued an enhanced risk for severe winter weather, which may include significant snow accumulation, ice, and prolonged subfreezing temperatures. Residents are advised to monitor local conditions closely. The likelihood of more than one inch of snowfall, coupled with wind chills that could pose health risks, necessitates caution.
To ensure public safety, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is actively monitoring road conditions and has established a treatment plan for major roadways. However, officials strongly urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses, which can become treacherous quickly.
In response to the forecast, several warming stations will be opened for residents seeking refuge from the cold. Water’s Edge will open at 5 PM on Sunday, January 19, while the Sulphur Christian Community Coalition will open at 4 PM the same day. The Salvation Army will provide shelter for males only.
Transportation assistance to these warming stations will be available from the City of Lake Charles on Sunday from 1 PM to 5 PM and Monday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
Designated bus stops for rides to warming centers include the following locations:
- McDonald’s on Ryan Street
- Walmart on Ryan Street
- Emerald Point at 5th Avenue
- SWLA Center for Health Services on Opelousas Street
- MLK Community Center on Simmons Street
- Prater and Harless Street
- Chateau du Lac
- Mill and Goos streets
- Abraham’s Tent on Fruge Street
- McDonald’s on Broad Street
- Salvation Army on Legion Street
- Legion Street and Highway 14
- Golden Arms on 2nd Avenue
- Walmart on Highway 14
- Fifth Avenue and College Street
- Walmart on Nelson Road
- Dollar Tree on 18th Street
Residents are also reminded to prepare for potential power outages. Entergy customers can report outages by calling 1-800-9-OUTAGE or via the Entergy app, while Beauregard Electric customers can reach out at (800) 367-0275.
Additionally, residents are encouraged to conserve water by allowing faucets to drip, as opposed to running them continuously.
For any emergencies, residents should call 911, while additional winter weather resources can be accessed by calling 211.
Recognizing the seriousness of the situation, all state offices will be closed on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, in light of the anticipated winter weather event.
As authorities prepare for this severe weather, the Louisiana State Police have advised drivers to heed caution, reminding them of essential winter driving tips. These include reducing speed, increasing following distance, and using low-beam headlights in inclement conditions. It is crucial for drivers to avoid using cruise control and to anticipate stops to prevent skidding.