Mixed Weather Warnings Issued Across Southern U.S.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana – Multiple weather warnings were issued across the southern United States on Monday as an Arctic front moved through the region, causing both freeze and red flag warnings. The National Weather Service (NWS) alerted residents in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida about the critical conditions.

NWS lead forecaster Phil Grigsby explained, “When we have these really strong first Arctic blasts come through, they are very dry. From a red flag warning perspective, we are looking for relative humidities getting down below 30 percent and wind speeds over 15 mph. We have that with this system today.” The NWS issues red flag warnings when conditions are favorable for wildfires.

On Monday morning, temperatures were expected to dip to dangerous lows, with freeze warnings set to be in effect for parts of Louisiana and Mississippi. Despite the cold weather, NWS highlighted the risk of wildfires given the combination of low humidity and high winds. According to the NWS, “Any fire that develops will catch and spread quickly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.” Low humidities in warning areas were recorded as low as 15 percent, with wind gusts reaching up to 30 mph.

Areas along and north of Interstate 10 and 12 in Louisiana will see overnight lows fall below freezing Monday night into Tuesday. Baton Rouge may experience a low around 32 degrees, and Hammond may see temperatures drop to around 28 degrees. Meanwhile, New Orleans is expected to have a low of around 38 degrees.

This early-season cold air mass also raised concerns for hypothermia, particularly in regions as far south as South Florida. NWS urged residents to take precautions to protect vulnerable plants and pets from the cold, emphasizing safety measures such as checking on neighbors and using indoor heating.

While red flag warnings are expected to expire by Monday evening, freeze warnings will continue until Tuesday morning. Residents are reminded to avoid outdoor burning and safeguard themselves against frigid temperatures.