TL/DR –
New Orleans and southeast Louisiana are preparing for very cold weather, with strong winds creating dangerous wind chills. Residents are advised to prepare for possible wintry precipitation in the form of freezing rain and sleet. A piece of the polar vortex will bring this cold air to the region, with temperatures expected to drop to as low as the mid-20s by Tuesday morning, and not rise above the 30s on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Freezing Temperatures Headed for New Orleans and Southeast Louisiana
Extremely cold air is predicted to hit New Orleans and southeast Louisiana, with strong winds causing dangerous wind chills. The cold spell will also bring wintry precipitation like freezing rain and sleet. Residents are advised to ensure their homes and neighbors are prepared, including safeguarding pipes against freezing, providing warmth for outdoor animals, and protecting delicate plants.
Effect of the Polar Vortex
A piece of the polar vortex, responsible for some of the earth’s coldest air, will break off, allowing frigid air to spill into southeast Louisiana. The arctic intrusion is expected to start from Monday evening, making temperatures drop drastically by Monday night.
Temperature Predictions and Hard Freeze Watch
Temperatures could fall to as low as the mid-20s in the coldest areas by Tuesday morning, with lows forecast to 25 or colder over our farthest north areas. Consequently, a hard freeze watch has been issued from 9 p.m. Monday night to 12 p.m. Tuesday. Tuesday night and Wednesday morning are expected to be the coldest, with hard freeze warnings likely to be issued.
Impact of Wind Chill Factor
North winds at 15-20-30 mph will accompany the arctic front on Monday night, making temperatures below 50 degrees feel even colder. This results in a significant wind chill factor, causing temperatures well below freezing to feel colder. A wind chill advisory has been issued for areas where it could feel as cold as 13 or worse.
Wintry Precipitation
A light rain of rain will accompany the initial round of arctic air on Monday night. The interaction between the cold air and light rain could cause big problems, leading to freezing rain or sleet. This makes walkways, parking lots, and driveways dangerous, while elevated roads, bridges, and overpasses can also become risky. A winter weather advisory has been issued for this reason.
Residents are reminded to ensure their neighbors have adequate heat, their homes are safe from freezing, and their outdoor animals and plants are well protected. Stay warm, and stay safe!
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