Gulf Coast Braces for Another Freeze

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The Gulf Coast region is preparing for another round of frigid temperatures this weekend, with forecasts calling for overnight lows dipping below freezing in parts of Alabama and Louisiana. While the upcoming cold front is expected to bring drier conditions compared to last weekend, high temperatures are still only expected to reach the high 30s to mid-40s across the area.

Why it matters

The back-to-back cold snaps are disrupting normal winter weather patterns along the Gulf Coast, which can have impacts on local businesses, agriculture, and residents' daily lives. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures also raises concerns about power outages, burst pipes, and other infrastructure issues.

The details

According to the National Weather Service, the new cold front moving in this week will bring high temperatures only reaching the high 50s in Louisiana, while overnight lows are forecast to drop to around 25 degrees in New Orleans and Baton Rouge, and as low as 18 degrees in Mobile, Alabama. While the precipitation associated with this front is expected to be limited, strong north winds of up to 35 mph are anticipated on Friday night and Saturday.

• The cold front is expected to move through the region on Thursday night and into Friday.
• Overnight lows are forecast to be around 25 degrees on Friday and Saturday nights in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
• Temperatures in Mobile, Alabama are predicted to drop to 18 degrees on Saturday night, the coldest reading of the weekend.

What’s next

Residents across the Gulf Coast region are advised to prepare for the upcoming cold snap by taking steps to protect pipes, plants, and pets, and to be cautious of potential power outages or icy road conditions.