Meteorologists confirm a strong winter storm moving through the central and southern U.S. This system will bring a surge of Arctic air to Louisiana, dropping temperatures sharply and pushing lows below freezing by late Sunday into Monday.

State leaders, including Governor Jeff Landry, have declared a state of emergency as cooler air combines with moisture ahead of the next week, raising the risk of freezing rain, icy surfaces, and a prolonged hard freeze.

What New Orleans Homeowners Should Expect

Cold air will arrive late Sunday, pushing temperatures from mild into below freezing for extended stretches through Monday and potentially Tuesday. Overnight lows may struggle to rise above freezing.

Precipitation is likely to start as rain Sunday and changeover toward freezing rain in colder pockets. Major icing is more likely north of the region, but even light ice or prolonged sub-freezing conditions can damage pipes, stress heating systems, and make outdoor surfaces slick.

Action Steps to Protect Your Home

Protect Plumbing
Point valves and exposed water lines are vulnerable when temperatures drop below freezing. Wrap or insulate exposed pipes, open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm indoor air circulate, and consider letting faucets drip slowly through the coldest hours. Shut off irrigation systems and disconnect garden hoses now.

Check Heating Systems
Have your heater serviced or tested before the cold arrives. Replace filters, verify thermostats work reliably, and make sure vents are unobstructed. If you use space heaters, follow safety guidelines, keep them away from flammable materials, and never leave them running unattended.

Electrical and Power Preparedness
Hard freezes can increase demand and risk brief outages. Make sure flashlights, battery backups, and phone chargers are ready. If you have a generator, check fuel levels and safe operating distance from doors and vents.

Protect Vulnerable Populations
Check on older neighbors and relatives. Make plans for pets and outdoor animals so they stay warm and dry. Bring potted plants indoors or cover them to reduce freeze damage.

Travel and Road Safety
Even if major icing isn’t forecast for the immediate metro area, bridges and overpasses can freeze first. Plan errands before Sunday evening and avoid travel during overnight freeze events. Salt or sand walkways and steps if temperatures dip below freezing.

Homeowner Equipment Checklist

• Pipe insulation and heat tape
  
  
• Weather stripping for draft prevention
  
  
• Flashlights and extra batteries
  
  
• Backup heat source (safe, tested)
  
  
• Rock salt or ice melt for walkways
  
  

Final Reminder

Winter weather in south Louisiana is uncommon. Even a hard freeze without heavy snow can damage infrastructure that isn’t built for extended sub-freezing conditions. Early preparation reduces risk of costly repairs and keeps your household safe. Stay tuned to the National Weather Service for updated local advisories.