A strong cold front is moving through Northwest Louisiana, bringing gusty winds, cooler temperatures and the potential for freezing overnight lows across Caddo and Bossier parishes this week.
Monday will be mostly sunny but noticeably cooler, with highs near 48 degrees. North winds of 10 to 15 mph will continue throughout the day, with gusts up to 30 mph. Temperatures will drop Monday night under partly cloudy skies, with lows around 29 degrees and lighter north winds.
Sunny but cool conditions will persist Tuesday, with highs near 48 degrees and light northwest winds. Clear skies Tuesday night will allow temperatures to dip to around 31 degrees, creating the potential for freezing conditions.
A gradual warming trend begins midweek. Wednesday is forecast to be sunny with highs near 60 degrees, followed by mostly clear skies Wednesday night and lows around 39 degrees. New Year’s Day is expected to be mostly sunny with highs near 66 degrees.
Warmer conditions continue into the latter part of the week, with highs near 70 degrees on Friday and mostly sunny skies. Overnight lows will remain mild, generally in the lower 50s. The weekend forecast calls for sunny conditions Saturday with highs near 67 degrees, cooling slightly overnight before mostly sunny skies return Sunday with highs near 64 degrees.
With freezing temperatures expected Monday night and possibly Tuesday night, residents are encouraged to take precautions to protect homes, pets and people. Exposed pipes should be insulated or allowed to drip, and outdoor faucets should be covered. Space heaters should be used safely and never left unattended.
Pet owners are urged to bring animals indoors or ensure they have warm shelter and unfrozen water.
Drivers should also use caution during early morning hours, particularly on bridges and overpasses where slick spots may develop if temperatures drop below freezing.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and take simple precautions to stay safe as colder weather moves through Caddo and Bossier parishes.