Shreveport Faces Ongoing Challenges Amid Winter Storm Aftermath

Power Outages Persist in North Louisiana

As of January 29, over 44,000 utility customers in North Louisiana remained without electricity following the recent winter storm. The majority of these outages are concentrated in Ouachita Parish, where more than 30,000 residents are still without power. Utility companies have deployed approximately 4,000 workers to restore service, but challenges persist due to impassable roads and ongoing severe weather conditions. Restoration efforts are expected to continue into the weekend, with temperatures forecasted to drop well below freezing, increasing the urgency of the situation.

Urban I-49 Reopens After Winter Storm

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) announced the reopening of urban I-49 in Shreveport on January 29. The interstate had been closed since January 23 due to hazardous conditions caused by the winter storm. The reopened sections include the northbound lanes between LA 526 and I-20, and the southbound lanes from I-20 to LA 3132. DOTD officials continue to monitor weather conditions to ensure roadway safety and advise motorists to exercise caution, especially on elevated surfaces that may still be affected by ice accumulations.

School Closures Due to Icy Conditions

In response to lingering icy conditions, Caddo Parish Public Schools and Bossier Parish Schools were closed on January 29. District officials cited hazardous travel and campus safety concerns, noting that while main roadways had improved, many neighborhood and rural roads remained icy and unsafe. Ice was also reported on several school campuses, creating slick conditions on walking paths, entrances, and parking areas. The closures were implemented to ensure the safety of students, staff, and families as winter weather conditions gradually improved.

Injury Accidents Reported in Shreveport

Several traffic accidents resulting in injuries were reported in Shreveport on January 28. Notably, a collision at the intersection of Terry Bradshaw Passway and Ashley River Road occurred during the late morning hours, leading to at least one person requiring medical attention. Another incident took place at the intersection of E Bert Kouns Industrial Loop and E Kings Highway, resulting in injuries and prompting a response from emergency crews. Additionally, an injury accident was reported on I-20 East at Spring Street, affecting eastbound lanes and leading to temporary traffic disruptions. Authorities are investigating these incidents to determine causes and prevent future occurrences.

Arctic Air Brings Record-Low Temperatures

Shreveport and Bossier City are bracing for a secondary wave of dangerous winter weather as arctic air moves into the region. The National Weather Service forecasts a significant drop in temperatures starting Friday night, with wind chills expected to reach well below zero. Residents are urged to prepare for dangerously low temperatures that could break records and to take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe during this period of extreme cold.

Sources

• Tens of thousands still without power in North Louisiana with more bitter cold coming
• DOTD reopens I-49 urban in Shreveport after closing it due to ice during winter storm
• Caddo, Bossier Parish schools remain closed today due to icy conditions
• Shreveport, LA – Injuries Reported in Accident at Terry Bradshaw Passway & Ashley River Rd
• Shreveport, LA – Collision with Injuries at E Bert Kouns Industrial Loop & E Kings Hwy
• Shreveport, LA – Injury Accident Reported on I-20 East at Spring St
• Arctic Air Hits Shreveport: What Residents Need To Know