Dangerous Cold Prompts Continued Closures and Safety Warnings Across South Louisiana

BATON ROUGE, La. — As South Louisiana braces for record-setting cold temperatures, officials have expanded safety precautions and school closures through Wednesday, Jan. 22. Forecasters warn that this could be the coldest weather Baton Rouge has experienced since 1989.

Extreme Weather Threats and Timing

The Arctic blast sweeping the region will bring widespread hard freezes both Tuesday night and Wednesday night into Thursday morning. Prolonged subfreezing conditions, some lasting more than 30 hours, are expected to cause significant disruptions.

Major Concerns Include:

• Frozen Pipes: The extended freeze may lead to an increase in burst pipes, particularly impacting smaller water systems due to widespread faucet dripping.
• Heating Risks: Home heating safety is critical, with heightened risks of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Residents are urged to use heaters responsibly and avoid using stoves or outdoor grills indoors.
• Power Outages: Scattered outages remain possible as trees and power lines buckle under the weight of accumulated ice.
• Travel Disruptions: Hazardous road conditions are likely to persist, making travel difficult to impossible in some areas.

Preparations for Residents

Officials are urging residents to take proactive steps to stay safe during the severe cold:

• Ensure pipes are insulated or wrapped to prevent freezing.
• Charge electronic devices and prepare for potential power outages.
• Use reliable weather alert systems to stay updated on emergency conditions.
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are functioning.

Interactive tools and updates are available through local weather services and apps. Residents are encouraged to stay informed by monitoring live weather reports and tracking storms with radar tools.

School Closures and Adjustments

Tuesday, Jan. 21, and Wednesday, Jan. 22:
All public schools across East Baton Rouge, Ascension, Livingston, West Baton Rouge, and neighboring parishes will remain closed, with several institutions transitioning to virtual learning. Higher education institutions such as LSU and Southern University have also shifted to remote operations.

Safety First Amid Extreme Conditions

Local officials and emergency response teams emphasize the importance of prioritizing safety during this weather event. The extended freeze poses risks that are unusual for the region, and residents should take extra precautions to protect themselves, their homes, and their families.

Stay connected to reliable sources for real-time updates and follow all recommended safety measures as the Arctic blast continues to impact South Louisiana.