Cold Front Heading to Louisiana, Icy Conditions Possible

Lake Charles, Louisiana (KNGT-FM) - After a relatively warm start to the winter season in Louisiana, that tide is starting to turn a bit. Over the last week or so, we have seen temperatures drop down into the 30's and it looks like that may continue over the next week.

While it is still early, colder temperatures and icy conditions are becoming more likely, especially in northern parts of the state. We've got everything you need to know about the upcoming forecast.

READ MORE: Full Louisiana Concert Guide For 2026

Now, before we get too deep into the forecasted models, let's just say... I don't think we're going to be getting anything like the January 2025 snowstorm anytime soon. That was nearly one year ago, already. Me personally, I hope we don't see anything like that for a long time.

This winter, Louisiana has been mostly warm. That’s because of a weather pattern called La Niña. La Niña keeps cold air up north, so Louisiana usually stays warmer and gets fewer big winter storms. NOAA says La Niña pushes the jet stream north. This makes the northern U.S. colder while Louisiana stays warmer and drier. This winter is expected to be a little warmer than usual with less rain. A big snow is not likely, but a small chance is still possible.

READ MORE: See Aerial View of Lake Charles Snow Day 2026

Louisiana Weather To Turn Cold & Potentially Icy

Weather experts say the next 8 to 10 days across Louisiana and much of the eastern U.S. will be colder than normal. Over the next few days, a low-pressure system is expected to form just off the Louisiana coast. This will bring more moisture into the area, increasing rain chances as the week goes on.

Right now, most weather models show the chance for frozen rain and ice staying north of the I-10 corridor. That means areas like Lake Charles, Lafayette, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans may stay mostly rain and cold.

Later in the week, towards the weekend, a strong cold front is expected to move through Louisiana. This front could push temperatures well below freezing in many areas. If that happens while moisture is still in place, some parts of the state could see ice buildup.

North Louisiana, especially areas near the I-20 corridor, could be hit the hardest. Forecasters warn that heavy ice could lead to power outages and dangerous road conditions.

Get our free mobile app

Weekend Weather Outlook for Louisiana (January 23-25, 2026)

Ruston, Louisiana

Friday Night: Rain or freezing rain likely before midnight. Cloudy, low around 26°F. 60% chance of precipitation.
Saturday: Rain, freezing rain, and sleet likely. Cloudy, high near 34°F. 60% chance of precipitation.
Saturday Night: Chance of freezing rain and sleet. Mostly cloudy, low around 21°F. 40% chance of precipitation.
Sunday: Slight chance of freezing rain. Mostly cloudy, high near 37°F. 20% chance of precipitation.

Monroe, Louisiana

Friday Night: Rain showers likely before midnight, then rain or freezing rain. Low around 28°F. 60% chance of precipitation.
Saturday: Rain, freezing rain, and sleet likely. High near 35°F. 60% chance of precipitation.
Saturday Night: Chance of rain, freezing rain, and sleet. Low around 22°F. 40% chance of precipitation.
Sunday: Slight chance of freezing rain. High near 37°F. 20% chance of precipitation.

Alexandria, Louisiana

Friday Night: Showers likely after midnight. Cloudy, low around 34°F. 60% chance of rain.
Saturday: Showers likely. Cloudy, high near 43°F. 60% chance of rain.
Saturday Night: Cloudy with a 50% chance of showers. Low around 28°F.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy with a 20% chance of showers. High near 42°F.

DeRidder, Louisiana

Friday Night: Cloudy with a low near 37. Showers likely after midnight (60% chance).
Saturday: Cloudy with a high near 46. Showers likely (60% chance).
Saturday Night: Cloudy with a low near 29. A 40% chance of showers.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy with a high near 43. A 20% chance of showers.

Lake Charles, Louisiana

Friday Night: Cloudy with a 50% chance of showers. Low around 42°F.
Saturday: Showers likely. Mostly cloudy, high near 51°F. Chance of rain 60%.
Saturday Night: Cloudy with a 40% chance of showers. Low around 34°F.
Sunday: Mostly cloudy with a 30% chance of showers. High near 46°F.