More cold weather is on the way for Louisiana. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is urging everyone to be aware of freezing temperatures expected this weekend. Some portions of the state in extreme Northeast Louisiana could be impacted by ice and snow, making it dangerous to be on the roads in those areas. House fires have also been a problem this winter during long periods of freezing conditions.

All eyes will be on a potential Winter Storm early next week which may effect the entire Four State Region. Timing is still a little sketchy at this time but the reinforcing shot of colder air appears to arrive late on Monday of next week with precipitation beginning to fall Monday Night into Tuesday. Winter precipitation type, amounts and locations will become better defined as the event nears.

“Make plans now to deal with this latest round of winter weather,” said GOHSEP Director Jim Waskom. “Check on friends and loved ones who may need help dealing with this type of weather. Make sure you carefully use any heaters or other items used to keep your homes warm. Also, be sure to check the roads in areas where wintry conditions could become a factor.”

The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal has released the following information concerning the rash of house fires this winter:

When using any type of heating source, whether it is a space heater or fireplace, homeowners should incorporate a “three-foot rule,” where there should be a space of at least three feet between a heating source and any combustibles such as furniture and décor. Ovens or open flame sources, such as candles, should never be used to heat homes.

Here are U.S. National Weather Service (NWS) updates for much of the state:

Northwest Louisiana:

Showers and thunderstorms will increase this afternoon ahead of a strong cold front. Look for temperatures to climb into the mid and upper 60s this afternoon, before falling sharply into the mid and upper 20s across much of East Texas and Southwest Arkansas, to the lower and mid 30s across North Louisiana. The rain will diminish from west to east this evening, although a brief period of light freezing rain/light snow will be possible this evening over Southeast Oklahoma and late tonight over Southwest Arkansas. However, little if any snow or ice accumulation is expected.

Extreme Northeast Louisiana:

Here’s the updated forecast for winter weather on Friday. Up to 1″ of snow/sleet accumulation is possible, mainly on grassy or elevated surfaces. Bridges and/or overpasses may become slick.