Winter Weather
Even though we're so far south, New Orleans can see dangerous winter weather. Extreme cold, dense fog, and even ice & snow storms are possible during the winter months. Dangers from these weather conditions include unsafe roads, cold-related illness, fires, and power outages.
Safety Tips - Snow & Ice Removal
The City continues to urge residents to exercise caution and stay off the roads. Here are some safety tips to use when it becomes safe to travel.
Shovel Snow Early: Shovel snow as soon as possible. This will prevent the snow from compacting, which makes it harder to remove. If you wait until the snow has compacted, there may be a thin layer of ice underneath.
Use the Right Tools: A sturdy snow shovel or a snow blower is ideal for clearing walkways and helps to prevent the formation of ice.
Watch for Freezing Areas: Pay attention to areas that may be prone to freezing, such as shaded areas or areas with poor drainage. These areas freeze quickly and can become hazardous.
Drive with Caution: If you must drive, ensure that your vehicle is winter ready. Drive slowly, leave extra distance between you and other vehicles and be aware of icy patches and black ice that can cause vehicles to lose traction on the roadway.
Clear Your Vehicle: Remove large chunks of snow and ice from your vehicle’s roof and ensure that the front, back and side windows are clear and don’t impede vision.
Use Safe Methods to Clear Windows: Use ice scrapers or common household items, such as a plastic dustpan or kitchen tools to remove ice from your windshields and windows. Never use boiling water on your windshields and windows. This can crack the glass due to the extreme temperature difference.