Winter Storm Brings Snow and Hazardous Conditions to Southern Louisiana

A winter storm has begun in southern Louisiana, impacting areas including New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Lafayette with snowfall early Tuesday. Local officials have declared road and school closures, urging residents to stay home. Forecasts predict significant snowfall, with the most accumulation expected between late morning and early evening.

A winter storm system has commenced in southern Louisiana, producing snowfall early Tuesday morning. By 4 a.m., Baton Rouge and Lafayette reported snow accumulation, while sleet had begun to fall in New Orleans around 10 p.m. the previous evening. Snow is anticipated to commence in the New Orleans metro area, including the Northshore, around 6 a.m. Local authorities have urged residents to remain indoors as the winter weather leads to numerous road and school closures.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and New Orleans. The heaviest snowfall is projected from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with wind gusts between 25 and 30 mph expected south of Interstate 10. Forecasts suggest that Baton Rouge may receive 5 to 7 inches of snow, while Lafayette could see up to 8 inches. New Orleans is expected to accumulate 4 to 6 inches, particularly in areas such as Slidell, Covington, Metairie, and Kenner.

In preparation for the winter storm, roadways including interstates and elevated bridges in Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Charles parishes were closed by 4 a.m. The Lake Pontchartrain Causeway bridge has also narrowed to a single lane. Residents are advised to monitor local updates regarding road closures.

School districts in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Acadiana have canceled classes on Tuesday, with many educational institutions also postponing classes for Wednesday. For additional information on school closures, local resources are available to the interested public.

Several grocery stores in the New Orleans area have closed their doors on Tuesday, with uncertainties surrounding their Wednesday operations. All Rouses locations in Louisiana and along the Mississippi Gulf Coast are among the closed establishments.

In light of the hazardous weather, Louisiana parish officials have strongly recommended that residents avoid driving due to dangerous snow and ice conditions. Some roads and bridges may be rendered impassable temporarily. Governor Jeff Landry interrupted his attendance at President Donald Trump’s inauguration to conduct a press conference urging citizens to prioritize safety and preparedness for their homes and pets.

Due to the severe weather, most city and parish government offices will be closed on Tuesday. For updated information on service availability, residents are encouraged to check their city’s official website or social media pages. Notably, St. Bernard and St. Charles parishes will also close government offices on Wednesday.

This article discusses the significant winter storm affecting southern Louisiana, bringing snow and sleet to cities such as Baton Rouge, Lafayette, and New Orleans. As this rare weather event unfolds, local authorities are urging residents to stay indoors due to hazardous travel conditions and have implemented numerous school and road closures. The article provides forecasts for expected snowfall amounts and local responses to the storm.

In summary, a winter storm has impacted southern Louisiana, leading to significant snowfall and hazardous conditions. Residents are advised to stay indoors as schools and roads close in response to the storm. Local authorities are actively monitoring the situation and providing updates to ensure public safety during this rare winter weather event.

Original Source: www.nola.com