First Alert Forecast: Rain Is Likely for All with an Ice Threat Still Possible for Northern Swla

First Alert Weather Forecast: Rain and Ice Threat Loom in Southwest Louisiana

Lake Charles, La. – As the weekend approaches, residents of Southwest Louisiana (SWLA) should prepare for a mix of rain and potential ice that could disrupt daily life. The First Alert Weather Team is closely monitoring a developing weather system expected to bring significant precipitation and a cold front moving in from the north.

Expected Precipitation

Saturday morning through Saturday afternoon, showers and even thunderstorms are possible as the first part of the storm arrives. While most areas can expect plain rain, Vernon Parish faces an increased risk of freezing rain if cold air moves quickly enough into the region. This could result in a 20- to 30-degree temperature difference from north-to-south.

Ice Accumulation Threat

The biggest concern arrives Saturday night through Sunday morning as rain and freezing rain begin to mix. The northern part of SWLA, particularly Vernon Parish, is at the highest risk for significant ice accumulation. Potential ice totals in Vernon Parish are forecasted between three-tenths and half an inch by Sunday morning.

If these amounts materialize, they could have severe impacts on power lines and utilities.

While the threat of ice is less pronounced further south, Beauregard and Allen Parishes could still see one-quarter to four-tenths of an inch of ice. Deridder and Oakdale are among the northernmost locations most at risk for heavier accumulations. Southern parishes like Calcasieu and Jeff Davis face a lower risk with a potential glaze of freezing rain, but this is more uncertain.

Arctic Air Arrival

On Monday morning, bitterly cold temperatures are expected to arrive, with wind chills dropping into the single digits across the region. Residents in elevated homes or those with exposed pipes should take precautions as these conditions can cause freezing issues. The threat of black ice is also present Sunday night through Monday morning, although its exact scope remains uncertain.

Local meteorologists are advising residents to prepare for potential power outages and travel disruptions, especially during Saturday evening into Sunday morning.

They recommend checking supplies before the storm arrives and keeping emergency kits handy in case of extended power loss or severe weather conditions.

The First Alert Weather Team will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as needed. Stay tuned for further developments as this forecast evolves over the coming days.