This post has been revised to include updated graphics, warnings and safety tips.
The National Weather Service's New Orleans office has upgraded its freeze watches to warnings, which indicate an imminent onset of precarious conditions, and is warning residents of Southeast Louisiana to prepare for the "invasion" of an arctic airmass this evening.
The temperature will plummet from highs in the 60s on Tuesday to lows in the teens on the Northshore Wednesday night.
The NWS says freeze and hard freeze warnings are in effect through Thursday morning, and precautions should begin to protect people, pipes, pets, property and plants before the onset of the frigid weather.
"Stay warm!" says NWS meteorologist Mike Efferson.
The National Weather Service has these tips to stay safe in the cold weather:
- Wear layers of clothing to stay warm, including a hat and gloves.
- Bring your pets indoors, or make sure they have adequate outside shelter. Pets and other animals need access to unfrozen water.
- Wrap outdoor pipes to insulate them.
- Place space heaters on level, hard surfaces, at least three feet away from anything flammable (clothing, bedding, rugs, etc.).
- If you use a fireplace, use a glass or metal screen to catch sparks. Make sure space heaters and fireplaces are off and out before heading to bed.
- Never use a stove or oven to heat your home.
- Check on elderly friends, neighbors and relatives.
Stay tuned to WWNO's Morning Edition and All Things Considered for regular updates on these dangerous weather conditions as they develop.