Officials in St. John the Baptist Parish are urging residents to take precautions as a cold front brings gusty winds and the season's lowest temperatures to the area.
The National Weather Service said Sunday that temperatures across the parish could drop well below freezing overnight, with sustained winds and gusts up to 35 mph creating "feels like" temperatures in the 20s.
A cold weather advisory is in effect from 9 p.m. Sunday through 9 a.m. Monday. Residents are advised to secure outdoor holiday decorations, cover or bring in plants, shelter pets, and check on neighbors who may be vulnerable to the cold. Exposed pipes are at risk in prolonged freezing conditions.
Parish officials warned against using ovens for heat or leaving space heaters unattended. Residents seeking shelter can contact the parish's non-emergency line.
Officials also encouraged signing up for emergency and weather alerts through NOLA Ready by texting "NOLAREADY" to 77295.
The parish joins the broader southeast Louisiana region preparing for the first significant freeze of the season, with city and parish emergency teams coordinating closely with the National Weather Service.