Shreveport Prepares for Winter Storm Cora

News Summary

As Winter Storm Cora approaches, Shreveport is taking preventive measures to ensure the safety of its residents. With freezing rain and sleet expected, city workers are equipping trucks with salt spreaders and snow plows. Officials urge residents to prepare for potential power outages and to protect their homes from burst pipes. Local agencies, including the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, are ready to respond to the storm’s impact. Citizens are encouraged to stay warm, conserve energy, and drive cautiously as winter weather conditions unfold.

Shreveport Gears Up for Winter Storm Cora!

As the chilly winds of January blow through the heart of Louisiana, Shreveport is bustling with activity, getting ready for Winter Storm Cora. On January 7, 2025, city workers were busy attaching salt spreaders to pickup trucks—a vital piece of equipment for keeping roads safe during icy conditions. But that’s not all! Snow plows have also been installed on various city trucks, signaling that the city is taking this winter storm seriously.

What’s on the Horizon?

Forecasters have predicted that freezing rain and sleet will start making an appearance late Wednesday, and it has the officials on high alert. Anticipated troubles include slippery roads, potential power outages, and even broken pipes. In light of these concerns, both Shreveport and nearby Bossier City have rallied their employees to prepare vehicles, stock supplies, and outline response plans for the upcoming weather disruptions.

Residents are being encouraged to prepare, too! It’s that time of year when you definitely don’t want to ignore the need to keep your home in tip-top shape. To avoid any mishaps with your plumbing, a wise precaution is to drip your pipes during the freezing temperatures.

The Challenge of Ice

Shreveport’s Public Works Director pointed out that ice is indeed the biggest challenge that the city might face. Ice can wreak havoc, particularly with trees, which can lead to inconvenient and sometimes dangerous power outages. While there isn’t an expectation of a severe winter event, the city’s crews are gearing up to clear critical areas, such as hospitals and interstates.

The City of Bossier is also reminding its residents to prioritize the well-being of not just themselves but also their pets, plants, and pipes! Making sure everything from your furry friends to your plumbing is ready for winter is key.

Pipe Trouble Ahead?

As the temperature drops, Shreveport Water and Sewerage Director has urged residents to remain vigilant for potential burst pipes, especially those situated above ground beneath houses on piers. To prevent this, residents should take precautions by insulating pipes, opening cabinet doors for airflow, and letting faucets drip during the severe cold.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development crews are also on deck. They are prepared to treat the roads with salt and brine as soon as conditions allow, aiming to keep everyone moving safely, especially on critical routes like Interstate 220 and sections of Interstate 49.

Ready for Anything!

Crews from SWEPCO have been outfitted with cold-weather gear and are making sure their trucks are ready for deployment if the storm impacts power services. They have coordinated with Shreveport’s Department of Water, Sewerage and Environmental Services to address any disruptions that might arise.

Residents can also do their part by conserving energy during this extreme cold by minimizing the use of heavy appliances. It’s always a good idea to save power while staying warm!

Working Together

Local leaders, law enforcement, and first responders recently held a closed meeting to strategize their response plans. There’s a spirit of unity among them, and they are ready to tackle whatever challenges Winter Storm Cora may bring.

As this winter storm approaches, citizens are encouraged to be extra cautious. When it comes to driving, icy roads can be treacherous. Make sure your vehicles are prepared for the conditions ahead—perhaps checking tires and keeping an emergency kit handy could be beneficial.

Stay warm and stay safe, Shreveport! Together, let’s face Winter Storm Cora with confidence!