As Louisiana braces for an incoming winter storm, state and local authorities are taking preemptive actions to safeguard citizens and address potential disruptions. Notably, Caddo Parish offices will be closed on Monday, January 15, to observe Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, with continuous weather monitoring to determine additional closures.
Caddo Parish officials encourage residents to stay informed about potential closures and adjustments through official channels. For updates, citizens can visit caddo.org or check the parish’s social media channels.
Road Closures and Traffic Advisories:
Interstate Closures:
- I-49 North between I-220 interchange and Mira Myrtis Road: The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is closing I-49 North due to winter weather conditions. Motorists are advised to use US 71 as an alternate route. Southbound traffic will be diverted at the I-49/Mira Myrtis Road interchange.
- I-49 between LA 526 and I-20 / I-20 to LA 3132: Urban I-49 in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, is being closed due to winter weather conditions. The closure includes northbound lanes between LA 526 and I-20, and southbound lanes from I-20 to LA 3132. Some access points will remain open, but specific ramps will be closed.
Bossier Parish Preparedness:
Officials in Bossier Parish, led by Parish Administrator Butch Ford, are actively preparing for the anticipated winter weather. Parish officials underscored plans to pretreat roadways and bridges to prevent ice accumulation. Residents are urged to safeguard pipes, pets, and plants ahead of the cold spell. Citizens are strongly advised to stay home during freezing temperatures.
Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler emphasized the importance of citizen preparedness, recommending measures such as allowing a small steady stream of water to prevent pipe freezing. A warming shelter at Stonewall Baptist Church and assistance from Bossier City Fire and Utilities are available if needed.
Emergency Exemption and Relief Measures:
Louisiana State Police issued a temporary emergency exemption for specific federal motor carrier safety regulations, effective from January 13, 2024, to January 18, 2024. This exemption facilitates disaster relief efforts, including power grid repairs and delivery of essential products.
Motorists are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and road closures through 511la.org and LSP’s social media accounts. In case of emergencies or hazardous road conditions, motorists can dial LSP (577) from their cell phones to request assistance.
As the state prepares for bitter cold temperatures and potential disruptions, authorities are working collaboratively to ensure public safety and provide necessary relief efforts.
For more information and updates, citizens are encouraged to stay connected with official channels and exercise caution during adverse weather conditions.