A *WINTER STORM WARNING* will go into effect across all of south Louisiana at 12 a.m. Tuesday, lasting until 12 a.m. Wednesday. In addition to bitter cold, heavy snowfall looks increasingly likely for most of southeast Louisiana as an Arctic Blast settles into the area. This system will generally move west to east across the Gulf of Mexico sending a plume of moisture across the frigid air mass.

Snow/Ice Accumulations: At this point, measurable snow is almost a certainty across the Capital Area. Most will see over 2", but some spots could see accumulations between 3 to 6 inches. If snow totals end up in the 3-6" range, that would rank as one of the Top 5 snowfalls for Baton Rouge. South of I-10/12, a snow/sleet mix will be possible during the onset of precipitation. Determining where that transition zone sets up is tricky, but should generally occur south of Baton Rouge. These areas may end up with slightly less accumulation, but will eventually see a transition to all snow. A period of freezing rain is a possibility closer to the coast, where ice accumulations less than a tenth of an inch are possible. Just like with rainfall, there may be isolated pockets with higher amounts. Accumulations are still subject to change.

Winter Storm Timing: Light snow could begin as early as the pre-dawn hours on Tuesday. Coverage and intensity of snowfall will increase through the morning. Snow will taper late in the day and end by evening.

Travel Impacts: Snow and ice could result in a multi-day travel headache. Make sure to pick up all essentials and medications prior before Tuesday. Roads, especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become treacherous. Plan on slick roads and hazardous travel as early as Tuesday morning. Consider delaying all travel. But if absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution. A winter storm kit including items such as tire chains, booster cables, flashlights, shovels, blankets, and extra clothing is a good idea. Also take water, a first aid kit, and anything else that would help you survive if you become stranded. Snow and ice will remain on roadways at least through Wednesday morning. Although partial melting might take place on Wednesday, a refreeze is expected Wednesday night. This could lead to an icy slush on Thursday morning.

Dangerous Cold: Make preparations for the dangerous cold before Monday, ensuring people and pets will have access to warmth and pipes are wrapped. Multiple hard freezes are expected beginning Monday morning with lows in the 20s. At these temperatures, exposed, outdoor pipes could rupture if not wrapped. In addition to that, a slow drip of inside faucets overnight could also help in preventing damage.

Wednesday will likely be the coldest morning, largely due to a snowpack possibly dropping low temperatures into the teens. For kids playing in snow, the extreme cold will be an important consideration. Multiple layers will be needed, along with heavy coats, a winter hat, and gloves. Try to cover all exposed skin.

Especially at night, wind chills or feels-like temperatures will be dangerously low, as low as the low teens at times only recovering into the 20s and 30s by day. An Extreme Cold Watch has been issued on Tuesday night ahead of dangerously cold wind chills as low as 5-10°.

Sunday Night & Monday: The Arctic Blast has arrived, and temperatures are set to drop even lower. Look for a morning low on Monday in the low to mid-20s under clear skies. This will be the first hard freeze of the season for the Capital Area, so be sure to protect all 4 P's - people, pets, plants, and pipes. All exposed outdoor plumbing must be wrapped/insulated by Sunday night. Although winds won't be overly brisk, there will be enough of a breeze to cause a wind chill. Morning feels-like temperatures will easily be in the teens. A Cold Weather Advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. Sunday to 9 a.m. Monday to account for the frigid feel. Cover all exposed skin and layer up if outside, especially for extended periods.

MLK Day will be chilly with a high in the low-40s. Most of the day will be sunny, but low clouds will begin arriving late. Cloud cover will only increase after dark ahead of the wintry precipitation.