Louisiana Winter Storm Claims 8 Lives

State health department confirms 5 more storm-related deaths, bringing the total to 8

Jan. 27, 2026 at 10:23pm

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The number of winter storm-related deaths in Louisiana has risen to a total of eight after the state health department confirmed five more deaths on Tuesday. The deaths include a 79-year-old woman who died due to hypoxia after the failure of an electrically powered oxygen concentrator during a power outage, a 46-year-old man who died in a car crash while driving on icy roads, a 62-year-old man and a 59-year-old woman who died of suspected hypothermia in their homes after a power outage, and a 78-year-old woman who died due to hypothermia.

Why it matters

The winter storm has had a devastating impact on Louisiana residents, particularly those who are vulnerable due to age, health conditions, or lack of access to reliable power and heating. These deaths highlight the importance of emergency preparedness and the need for community support during extreme weather events.

The details

The DeSoto Parish coroner confirmed two deaths - a 79-year-old woman who died due to hypoxia after the failure of an electrically powered oxygen concentrator during a power outage, and a 46-year-old man who died in a car crash while driving on icy roads. In Sabine Parish, the coroner confirmed the deaths of a 62-year-old man and a 59-year-old woman who died of suspected hypothermia in their homes after a power outage. The Franklin Parish coroner confirmed the death of a 78-year-old woman who died due to hypothermia.

  • On Tuesday, the Louisiana state health department confirmed 5 additional winter storm-related deaths.
  • Earlier this week, 3 deaths were reported - 2 men in Caddo Parish who died due to hypothermia, and an 86-year-old man in DeSoto Parish who died due to carbon monoxide poisoning.

The players

Louisiana State Health Department

The state agency responsible for monitoring and reporting on public health issues, including storm-related deaths.

DeSoto Parish Coroner

The local official responsible for investigating and confirming the causes of death in DeSoto Parish.

Sabine Parish Coroner

The local official responsible for investigating and confirming the causes of death in Sabine Parish.

Franklin Parish Coroner

The local official responsible for investigating and confirming the causes of death in Franklin Parish.

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What’s next

Warming centers remain open throughout Louisiana to provide shelter and resources for residents affected by the winter storm. Officials are urging residents to be vigilant about the signs of cold-related illnesses and to take necessary precautions to stay safe.

The takeaway

This tragic loss of life underscores the need for robust emergency preparedness and community support systems to protect vulnerable populations during extreme weather events. As Louisiana continues to recover from the winter storm, it is crucial that local and state authorities work together to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.