Sat Jan 24 13:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Winter Storm Threatens Southwest Louisiana with Ice and Bitter Cold
The Story:
Southwest Louisiana is bracing for a weekend of severe weather, including rain, potential ice accumulation, and a rapid shift to bitterly cold temperatures. A winter storm is expected to bring showers and thunderstorms on Saturday, January 25, 2026, followed by freezing rain, particularly affecting the northern parishes. The primary concern is significant ice accumulation in Vernon Parish, which could disrupt roads, power lines, and utilities. Following the ice threat, an arctic air mass will plunge temperatures into the low 20s with single-digit wind chills by Monday morning, January 27, 2026.
The forecast emphasizes the importance of residents taking precautions to protect vulnerable pipes and elevated homes. The possibility of black ice forming adds another layer of concern, dependent on wind conditions pushing in drier air. The First Alert Weather Team is closely monitoring the situation and urging residents to stay updated on the latest forecasts.
Key Points:
- Rain and thunderstorms are expected on Saturday morning and early afternoon.
- Vernon Parish faces the highest risk of significant ice accumulation, with potential totals between three-tenths and half an inch through Sunday morning.
- Beauregard and Allen Parishes could see one-quarter to four-tenths of an inch of ice, primarily in their northern sections.
- Calcasieu and Jeff Davis Parishes may experience a light glaze of ice, potentially impacting bridges and overpasses.
- Arctic air will arrive by Monday morning, bringing temperatures into the low 20s with single-digit wind chills.
- There is a potential for black ice to form Sunday night into Monday morning.
Key Takeaways:
- Southwest Louisiana faces a multi-faceted weather threat, requiring preparedness for rain, ice, and extreme cold.
- Vernon Parish is at the greatest risk for significant ice accumulation and potential disruptions.
- The rapid temperature drop and potential for black ice pose significant safety hazards.
- Residents need to take immediate precautions to protect their homes and ensure their safety during the storm.
- Staying informed through the First Alert Weather Team is crucial for accurate and timely updates.
Impact Analysis:
The forecasted winter storm has the potential to significantly impact infrastructure and daily life in Southwest Louisiana. Potential power outages due to ice accumulation could disrupt homes and businesses. Hazardous road conditions will likely lead to travel delays and accidents. The extreme cold temperatures can cause damage to infrastructure, such as frozen pipes, and pose health risks to vulnerable populations. The economic impact could be substantial, affecting businesses, transportation, and emergency services. Long-term, the event underscores the increasing vulnerability of the region to extreme weather events, potentially requiring investment in more resilient infrastructure and emergency preparedness measures.
First Piper 