Winter Storm Warning Issued as Louisiana and Texas Prepares for Significant Snowfall

By Calcasieu Staff
Published January 19, 2025

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Lake Charles, Louisiana – A historic winter storm is poised to impact Southwest Louisiana, Southeast Texas, and much of the Gulf Coast, bringing with it a substantial amount of snow and icy conditions.

Southwest Louisiana is expected to see snow beginning Monday night and continuing into Tuesday. Initially, residents may see a mix of precipitation that will eventually transition to all snow. In areas experiencing heavy snow bands, snowfall rates could exceed one inch per hour, creating treacherous conditions. Current forecasts indicate that total snow accumulations will likely range from three to six inches, with localized areas possibly receiving upwards of eight inches. The greatest snow totals are anticipated between Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 190.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for much of Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas effective from midnight on Monday night until midnight CST on Tuesday night. The warning outlines the potential for heavy mixed precipitation, indicating total snow and sleet accumulations between four and six inches, along with ice accumulations of up to 0.02 inches in areas south of the I-10 corridor to the coast. Winds are projected to gust as high as 35 miles per hour, contributing to dangerous whiteout conditions.

Residents in central, south central, southwest, and west central Louisiana, as well as southeast Texas, should prepare for slippery road conditions that could impact both the Tuesday morning and evening commutes. Authorities are urging individuals to stay indoors until conditions improve. For those who must travel, it is recommended to keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in their vehicles as a precautionary measure in case of an emergency.

To stay safe during the storm, individuals are advised to dress in layers, as multiple layers of clothing can provide better insulation against the cold than a single heavy coat. Covering exposed skin is crucial to reducing the risk of frostbite or hypothermia. Essential items such as gloves, scarves, and hats are important for retaining body heat.

Authorities emphasize the importance of delaying travel unless absolutely necessary. For those who must venture out, extreme caution is advised. The storm is expected to have lasting impacts for multiple days, with residents potentially needing to shelter in place from Tuesday to Thursday.

As the storm approaches, experts warn that the cold temperatures could pose dangers, including tree branches breaking under the weight of the heavy snow. Residents are advised to monitor the conditions around their homes, keep pets warm, and protect plumbing pipes from freezing temperatures.