Sat Jan 18 13:20:00 UTC 2025: **Southeast Louisiana Braces for Winter Storm; Freezing Rain Possible**
ST. TAMMANY PARISH, La. — Southeast Louisiana is preparing for a significant winter weather event expected to hit Tuesday, bringing rain and temperatures potentially dropping into the twenties. This could create hazardous conditions, including freezing rain, prompting warnings from officials to stay vigilant.
St. Tammany Parish is urging residents to stay home to avoid slick roads, despite having sufficient salt supplies. The parish is assessing the need for a warming shelter. The Causeway Commission is advising drivers to exercise extreme caution, especially on the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, and reduce speeds significantly. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) plans to preemptively treat roadways with brine. Residents are also advised to take precautions to protect plants and pets from the cold. Homeowners should cover or protect sensitive vegetation and ensure pets have warm shelter.
The storm’s impact is expected to be felt across the region, with officials across Southeast Louisiana encouraging residents to monitor weather forecasts and prepare accordingly.