Mon Jan 26 10:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Southeast Louisiana Braces for Extreme Cold and Hazardous Travel

The Story:
Southeast Louisiana is preparing for a significant winter storm expected to bring dangerously cold temperatures and treacherous travel conditions. An Extreme Cold Warning has been issued from 6 PM Sunday through noon Tuesday, with wind chill factors potentially reaching the low teens. The warning highlights the risk of frostbite and hypothermia from exposed skin. Hazardous travel conditions are anticipated, particularly north of I-12 and west of Lafayette, with the potential for refreezing roads and multiple mornings of hazardous travel.

Key Points:

  • An Extreme Cold Warning is in effect from 6 PM Sunday through noon Tuesday.
  • Wind chill factors are expected to drop into the low teens, posing a risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Treacherous travel conditions are possible, especially north of I-12 and west of Lafayette.
  • Roads may refreeze due to subfreezing temperatures.
  • Widespread power outages are possible.
  • Residents are advised to wrap pipes, stock emergency supplies, and prepare for potential power outages.
  • Air travel could be significantly impacted in cities from Dallas to Washington, D.C.

Key Takeaways:

  • The severity of the expected cold warrants immediate precautions to protect vulnerable populations from frostbite and hypothermia.
  • Travel should be avoided if possible, particularly in the areas most likely to experience hazardous conditions.
  • Emergency preparedness is crucial given the potential for widespread power outages and disruption of services.
  • The timing of the event, late January, aligns with historical patterns of cold weather events in the region.
  • The broad geographical impact, potentially affecting numerous cities, underscores the need for coordinated regional responses.

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