Shreveport’s Unforgettable Freeze of 1983: A Winter Wonderland or Winter Nightmare?
Shreveport, Louisiana is known for its warm, mild winters. Before the winter of 1983, residents enjoyed cozy holiday seasons without battling icy roads or frostbite. However, December came with a surprise that turned the city into a winter wonderland — or rather, a winter nightmare!
It All Started with a Cold Front
As mid-December rolled in, local meteorologists noticed something unusual brewing up north. A massive cold front was making its way south, and it wasn’t just going to bring chilly breezes. By the end of the week, Shreveport found itself under a blanket of icy air. Temperatures plummeted below a bone-chilling 20°F. Residents couldn’t believe their eyesas they saw the landscape transform overnight!
The Once Slow-Moving Red River
December 19-20 became etched in history as the dates when Cross Lake and the Red River actually froze over. Yes, you read that right! People went from leisurely fishing trips and scenic boat rides to witnessing the rivers turn solid. Ice skaters and adventurous locals took to the frozen waterways, creating memories that would last a lifetime. It was as if Shreveport had suddenly taken a page from a classic winter tale.
Snowfall and Ice Storm Mayhem
As if the freezing temperatures weren’t enough, Mother Nature decided to throw in over five inches of snow and a surprise ice storm! Families began to pull out their snow shovels and sleighs, restrictions were placed on travel as roads became hazardous, and the whole city started to feel like a snowy postcard. Holiday shopping transformed into a slippery adventure, with folks laughing (and sometimes crying) as they slid down icy sidewalks.
The Temperature Plummets
By Christmas Day, the scene was nothing short of extraordinary — and freezing. Shreveport woke up to a staggering low of only 6 degrees. That’s right, Christmas has rarely felt so cold in this typically warm city! You could almost hear the sound of hot cocoa being prepared as families huddled together, reminiscing about the white winter outside.
A Record-Setting December
To this day, December 1983 holds the title of the coldest December on record in Shreveport history. The freezing temperature and unexpected snow brought residents together in ways they had never experienced before. Children made snowmen, neighbors helped each other shovel the thick snow, and the spirit of community blossomed through the blistering cold.
Looking Back at Winter’s Grip
As we reflect on this chilling chapter, it’s amazing to think about how weather can shape our memories. Older residents fondly recall the icy fun, while younger ones learn from stories passed down. With KTBS approaching its 70th anniversary next year, it feels fitting to take a walk down memory lane and remember the grip of winter that forever changed Shreveport.
A Time to Remember
So, whether you are sipping hot cocoa by a warm fire or venturing outside to play in the snow, just remember — winter doesn’t always mean mild temperatures. Sometimes, it brings a surprise, showing us an entirely different side of the place we call home. Who knew Shreveport could transform into a frozen paradise? Here’s to the memories we share, the stories that continue to be told, and the laughter that echoes long after the snow has melted!
