Share This:

Louisiana State Police Urge Caution during Forecasted Winter Weather Event

Published January 20, 2022

The National Weather Service is keeping an eye on a cold front that is passing through Louisiana and could bring wintry precipitation. A mixture of rain, freezing rain, and/or ice is expected to affect much of Louisiana beginning Thursday night and continuing into Friday. This weather event may have an impact on motorists due to the possibility of wintry precipitation accumulating on roadway surfaces.
Before deciding whether to travel, Louisiana State Police advises motorists to stay up to date on the latest weather and travel conditions.

As temperatures near the freezing point, freezing rain and sleet can cause bridges and overpasses to ice quickly. If road conditions deteriorate, motorists are advised to avoid driving until conditions improve. If ice builds up on bridges and/or overpasses, LSP will collaborate with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development and our local law enforcement partners to take appropriate action.

Roadway closures are possible and expected across the state. For road closure information, motorists can check our Southwest Louisiana Live Traffic Map, utilize the 511 phone system, 511la.org, or Louisiana 511 smartphone application.

Throughout the weather event, Troopers will be actively patrolling the state to monitor roadway conditions and assist stranded motorists.

Louisiana State Police offers the following winter weather driving tips:

• Avoid unnecessary travel and stay up-to-date on weather conditions
• Ensure all vehicle occupants are properly restrained
• Reduce speed and allow extra time to reach your destination
• Increase your following distance behind other vehicles
• Do not drive using the cruise control in icy conditions
• Anticipate stops (such as stop signs and traffic signals) and brake gently while stopping
• If you encounter a skid, take your foot off the accelerator and steer into the skid until you regain control
• Use low beam headlights if it is raining or sleeting

If you experience difficulties or witness hazardous situations while on the highway, please notify the nearest Louisiana State Police Troop by dialing *LSP (*577).