The National Weather Service in New Orleans has issued an extreme cold warning through noon CST Tuesday. Today will start cloudy, then clear gradually, with a high near 42°F. However, strong north winds up to 30 mph will make it feel closer to 17°F. This cold can quickly freeze unprotected skin and may cause water pipes to rupture, according to the National Weather Service.
Tonight promises a slight reprieve as the mercury is expected to drop to a still jaw-clenching 28°F. Sunny days will inch up in temperature, hitting highs close to the 50s by midweek. However, nocturnal temps will stay stubbornly cold, threatening to dip into the frosty 20s and 30s, as reported by the National Weather Service.
This extreme cold isn’t limited to New Orleans. It’s affecting all of southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi, from Pointe Coupee to southern Jackson. The National Weather Service urges residents to use fireplaces and portable heaters safely. Everyone is encouraged to dress in layers and check on elderly neighbors as the region faces this deep freeze together.
Wind chills could drop as low as 8°F, making frostbite and hypothermia real risks. Bring pets indoors, let faucets drip to prevent frozen pipes, and dress in layers with a hat, face covering, and gloves if you go outside.
