First alert as arctic air is in place before the winter storm approaches

On January 22, 2025By Littum

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – A winter storm warning is in place across southeast Louisiana and the Mississippi Gulf Coast as historic snow totals are expected with an impending storm. The promised arctic air is deposited across the region with lows Monday morning in the low to mid 20s north and west of Lake Pontchartrain and just below freezing south. Even with bright sunshine, daytime temperatures will only reach the upper 30s and low 40s. Temperatures will drop below freezing during the evening and will likely remain below freezing for more than 24 hours.

Winter weather will begin overnight from west to east as the low developing along the Texas coast pushes eastward forcing moisture up over the deep cold. Light icing and snow will begin during the early morning hours. Around 6, the snow will take over most of the area and last all day. Expect totals of 5 to 8 inches with some isolated higher totals across the most populated areas, including River Parishes, Orleans and Jefferson Parishes, parts of Tangipahoa and St. Tammany and parts of Plaquemines and St. Bernard Parish. Snow will be lower further north with drier air and closer to the coast with more warmer air that can penetrate the cold dome.

Travel will be severely restricted until Wednesday morning. Expect extreme cold again on Wednesday, with the snow helping the air stay even colder. North shore temperatures will drop into the teens and south of the lake into the low 20s. Any snow that melts during the day Wednesday will refreeze, and there will be the potential for more ice on the roads through Thursday morning. Ensure full freeze precautions are in place throughout the coming week.

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