A sudden blast of Arctic air is expected to bring severe freezing temperatures to southeast Texas and parts of Louisiana tonight, prompting Freeze Watches and Cold Weather Advisories throughout the area.
According to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles, a powerful cold front has already passed through the area, with an Arctic-like air mass setting in late Sunday and lasting into Monday. Gusty north winds will bring quickly dropping temperatures, producing hazardous conditions overnight.
From 8 p.m. Sunday until 9 a.m. Monday, a Freeze Watch will be in place for southeast Texas, as well as central, south-central, and southwest Louisiana. Low temperatures are forecast to range from 20 to 25 degrees north of Interstate 10 and 26 to 31 degrees south of I-10. Sub-freezing temperatures may linger for 8 to 14 hours north of I-10, increasing the risk of damage.
In addition, a Cold Weather Advisory is in force from 6 p.m. Sunday to 10 a.m. Monday, with overnight lows ranging from 20 to 28 degrees. Wind chills are predicted to plummet into the mid-teens to near 20 degrees, raising worries about frostbite and hypothermia during extended outdoor exposure.
Meteorologists warn that, while no precipitation is forecast during the freeze, leftover moisture and lowering temperatures may pose threats to exposed piping and vulnerable vegetation. The cold will be brief, but strong.
Residents are asked to take preparations now, including as securing pipes, bringing pets indoors, and covering outdoor plants. Officials also suggest securing unsecured outdoor goods due to severe winds ahead of the coldest weather.
Temperatures are expected to progressively improve later Monday, but officials warn that the Arctic epidemic could have long-term consequences if safeguards are not followed.
Leave a Reply