Severe Cold Weather Alert: Protect Your Pipes and Stay Warm SWLA

Lake Charles & Calcasieu Residents Urged to Take Precautions as Freezing Temperatures Approach

Feb. 19, 2025 –  Per Calcasieu Parish Police Jury,

With dangerous winter weather moving into Southwest Louisiana, Calcasieu Parish officials urge residents to protect their homes by wrapping exposed pipes and allowing faucets to drip only when temperatures drop below freezing.

A steady flow of water is unnecessary, and well-insulated homes with concrete foundations may not require dripping. Once temperatures rise, turn off faucets to help maintain water pressure in the system. Homeowners with irrigation systems should also shut off and drain their backflow preventers to prevent costly damage.

To help those in need, warming centers are now open at Water’s Edge Gathering Church in Lake Charles and the Sulphur Christian Community Coalition. Additionally, The Salvation Army at 3020 Legion St. in Lake Charles provides shelter for up to 20 men.

Stay informed by visiting calcasieu.gov/winterweather for updates and monitoring local news and the National Weather Service for the latest conditions. Stay safe and be prepared, Southwest Louisiana!