Unseasonably Cold: New Orleans Braces for Rare Snow and Freezing Temps

New Orleans is bracing for a dramatic weather shift that could bring unseasonably cold temperatures and even a rare chance of snow! Starting with mild weather and rain, the Crescent City will experience a steep drop into freezing conditions, turning this week into one of the coldest in recent memory. If you haven’t winterized your plans yet, now’s the time

Today’s Forecast: Mild Before the Change

Friday offers some sunshine early on, followed by increasing clouds. Highs will reach a comfortable 65°F (18°C), but lows will hover around 60°F (15°C). It’s the calm before the icy storm.

Your Weekly Weather Breakdown

• Saturday, January 18: Rain and possible morning thunderstorms will dominate. Temperatures will peak at 70°F (21°C) before plunging to a brisk 43°F (6°C) at night.
• Sunday, January 19: The cooldown hits hard, with windy conditions and sunny skies. Highs will reach 52°F (11°C), while lows drop to a frigid 29°F (-2°C).
• Monday, January 20: Cold and cloudy, with a high of just 42°F (6°C) and a low of 31°F (0°C).
• Tuesday, January 21: A mix of rain, sleet, and possibly snow is forecasted. Highs will hover at 41°F (5°C), and lows will plummet to 28°F (-2°C).
• Wednesday, January 22: Mostly cloudy skies persist, with highs near 49°F (9°C) and lows around 40°F (5°C).
• Thursday, January 23: A slight warm-up brings cloudy skies, a high of 59°F (15°C), and a low of 39°F (4°C).

Why This Week Is So Rare

While January is typically the coldest month in New Orleans, with average highs of 60°F (15.8°C), this week’s lows dipping into the 20s°F (-2°C to -5°C) are far from normal. Snow is an infrequent visitor to the region, making this forecast even more unusual and noteworthy.

Tips to Stay Safe and Comfortable

• Winterize Your Home: Protect pipes and ensure heating systems are working properly.
• Dress for the Cold: Layering is essential to manage the sharp temperature drops.
• Stay Alert: Keep an eye on forecasts, especially for updates on snow or icy road conditions.

New Orleans is gearing up for a weather pattern that will challenge the norm with freezing temperatures and potential snowfall. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, it’s crucial to prepare for this rare and extreme cold snap