The National Weather Service is warning residents across the region to prepare for a significant winter weather event that could bring dangerous travel conditions, extended power outages, and life-threatening cold temperatures through early next week.
A mix of freezing rain and sleet is expected to begin impacting northwest portions of the area as early as this evening, gradually spreading southward through Sunday. Areas affected by this ice storm could see hazardous to near-impossible travel conditions, especially on roads, bridges, and overpasses. Downed trees and power lines are also likely, which could lead to widespread power outages, particularly across northwest areas. Some outages could last multiple days.
With the increased risk of downed trees and power outages, residents are urged to stay clear of downed power lines at all times, as they may still be energized and extremely dangerous. Downed power lines should be reported immediately to Entergy at 1-800-ENTERGY (1-800-368-3749) or by calling 911. Additional storm safety information is available through Entergy’s Storm Center.
Concordia Electric is also reminding customers to use proper reporting channels as conditions worsen. Residents are asked to use the Concordia Electric mobile app to report outages only. For other issues, including blinking lights, low voltage, or trees down, customers should call 318-339-7969. Outages may also be reported by phone. If dispatchers are unavailable, callers are encouraged to leave a detailed voicemail, as messages will be checked frequently.
In addition to the ice, extremely dangerous cold is expected to settle in this weekend and persist into early next week. Overnight lows are forecast to fall well below freezing, with single-digit temperatures possible in northern and northwestern areas. Daytime highs during the coldest period, expected from Sunday through early Tuesday morning, may remain at or below freezing across central and northwestern portions of the region.
The National Weather Service warns that frostbite can occur quickly, and hypothermia is likely with prolonged exposure to these temperatures. The cold may also cause damage to exposed pipes and water mains, increasing the risk of water outages. Areas that experience ice accumulation will be more vulnerable to colder temperatures, and power outages in these areas could significantly increase the danger.
Residents are urged to prepare now by limiting travel during the storm, protecting pipes, and ensuring they have a safe way to stay warm in the event of a power outage, especially across central, northern, and northwestern areas. Officials stress the importance of monitoring updated forecasts as conditions evolve through the weekend.
Warming stations for the Miss-Lou area can be found here
With the combination of ice, power outages, and prolonged cold, the National Weather Service is reminding residents to protect the “P’s, People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants.
Residents are encouraged to limit time outdoors, prepare for potential power outages, and check on elderly neighbors and other vulnerable individuals. Frostbite can occur quickly in these conditions, and hypothermia is likely with prolonged exposure.
Pet owners should ensure animals are kept warm, dry, and indoors as much as possible, with access to food and water that will not freeze. Outdoor exposure should be limited, and pets should be properly bundled if they must go outside.
Homeowners are urged to protect pipes by insulating them when possible, opening sink cabinets to allow warm air to circulate, and disconnecting outdoor hoses while turning off water to sprinklers. Damage to exposed pipes and water mains is likely as temperatures drop.
Plants may also be impacted by the cold, and residents should be aware of temperature thresholds for sensitive vegetation. When possible, plants should be covered ahead of the cold to help retain heat.
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