
The National Weather Service in New Orleans has issued weather alerts for cold conditions, snow, and ice. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Monday night to Tuesday evening. The northern half of the area could see 4 to 8 inches of snow, while the southern half might get 2 to 6 inches, according to the National Weather Service.
In preparation for the storm, the National Weather Service has urged residents to delay all travel, except in cases where it is absolutely necessary. "Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous," warns the National Weather Service. "Plan on slippery road conditions." They recommend carrying a winter storm kit when traveling, which should include items such as booster cables, a flashlight, blankets, extra clothing, water, and a first aid kit among other essentials that could aid in survival if stranded.
Beyond the Winter Storm Watch, there's also a Cold Weather Advisory in effect. This advisory will be active from 6 PM Sunday to 9 AM CST Monday, and again from 6 PM Monday to 6 PM CST Tuesday. Forecasters anticipate very cold wind chills, with some areas expecting wind chills to dip to 10 to 15 degrees. Areas south of the I-10/12 corridors could see wind chills of 15 to 25 degrees, as repoted by the National Weather Service.
Residents are advised to take precautions against the cold. The National Weather Service advises dressing warmly in layers, wearing a hat and gloves when outside. Pet owners should keep their pets indoors as much as possible and provide a warm, dry shelter with food and unfrozen water for outdoor animals. "Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors," the advisory adds, noting that proper heating equipment usage is vital, and generators or grills should never be used indoors. Failures to take precautions can lead to hypothermia, or even worse in extreme cases.