Take no chances.
That’s the word going out to residents of Washington Parish as near-record low temperatures are predicted for Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday.
Making the bitterly low temperatures worse, it is also possible that rain predicted for Sunday will freeze and make some roads and bridges hazardous. Even a very light glaze of ice can make sidewalks, outdoor steps, roads, and bridges slippery.
As of this posting, the weather predictions are not 100% definite. An approaching winter storm could veer more to the north or, worse, more southward into Washington Parish.
But as of now, what’s predicted is:
---Sunday, January 25, High of 55 degrees, low of 24+/- degrees. The temperature will gradually decrease through the day. Meanwhile, rain is predicted earlier in the day. If bridges and roads are still wet from this rainfall when the temperatures drop below freezing, driving could be very hazardous.
---Monday, January 26, Low temperature dropping down to 16+/- degrees.
---Tuesday, January 27, Low temperature dropping down to 22+/- degrees.
---Wednesday, January 28, a low temperature of approximately 28 degrees.
On Thursday, January 29, temperatures will begin moving toward a more normal late January range.
Please note that the windchill factor will make the low temperatures listed above even colder. These are dangerously low temperatures. Minimize your exposure to them. In the South, we have very little experience with bitterly cold weather. People down here might not realize that in under 20 degrees with even a slight breeze, it doesn't take long for unprotected skin to be frostbitten.
Protect people, pets, pipes, and plants. Without adequate protection, exposed pipes will freeze.
Respect the cold. If you have to postpone something or miss something entirely, that's to be expected. Put your safety first.
And also respect our Washington Parish first responders. They have to go out in dangerous temperatures to tend to victims who should have stayed home!
Franklinton Mayor Darwin Sharp urged people to be cautious and to prepare. He issued the following statement:
"According to reports from weather authorities, freezing temperatures are expected in our area over the next several days. The Town of Franklinton is actively monitoring conditions and coordinating with weather officials to ensure our Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments are prepared.
Residents are encouraged to take necessary precautions, including protecting exposed pipes, limiting travel if possible, and checking on neighbors—especially the elderly and those who may need assistance.
Please use caution during this period of cold weather and stay informed as conditions develop. Additional updates will be provided as needed. In case of emergency, dial 911."
UPDATE: The Washington Parish School System has announced that Monday, January 26, will be a virtual learning day for all schools in the Washington Parish System. The students will not go to school but classes will be held via internet connection.
A decision about Tuesday is expected to be announced on Monday. In a statement, the school system said, "The safety of our students and staff remains our top priority."
-----This article will be updated as the weather forecast is updated.-----
