Shreveport, LA – As families wrap up their Thanksgiving celebrations and prepare to return home, a powerful cold front pushing in from Texas is set to bring widespread rain and thunderstorms to northwest Louisiana beginning early Saturday. The timing of this system raises concerns for drivers planning to travel along major corridors such as I-20 and I-49, where wet roads and gusty winds may slow traffic throughout the day.
Saturday Storm System Expected to Disrupt Travel
Forecasters with the National Weather Service warn that residents will wake up to mild, muggy conditions before showers begin developing across the region by late morning. As the cold front strengthens, rainfall is expected to become more widespread and persistent.
Rain chances climb to 90% by Saturday night, with meteorologists cautioning that locally heavy downpours could reduce visibility and create potentially hazardous driving conditions. Southeast winds may gust up to 20 mph, adding another layer of difficulty for travelers heading home after the holiday.
An NWS forecaster noted:
“This front will be strong enough to bring periods of heavy rain and isolated thunderstorms, especially during peak travel hours. Drivers should expect delays and allow extra time.”
The stormy weather will gradually push eastward late Saturday into early Sunday, but damp and cloudy conditions will linger behind it.
Sharp Temperature Drop Expected After the Front
Once the front moves through, the region will transition quickly into a much colder pattern. Afternoon highs will fall from the mid-60s on Saturday to the upper 40s by Sunday, marking a significant change that signals the arrival of early-December chill.
Overnight lows will dip near the freezing mark by Monday night, creating the potential for patchy frost, particularly in rural areas and colder pockets north of Shreveport. Residents are encouraged to take precautions with outdoor plants, pets, and uninsulated pipes as temperatures continue to fall.
Meteorologists say this temperature shift is part of a broader national weather trend. A large cold trough is expected to dominate the central and eastern U.S. through December 6, keeping the South cooler than normal and supporting a wetter-than-average start to the month.
Broader Weather Pattern Across the South
This weekend’s cold front aligns with a larger system stretching across multiple states. As it deepens across the Mississippi Valley and into the Midwest, those traveling further north should closely monitor conditions. Colder air interacting with lingering moisture could lead to a mix of rain and light wintry precipitation in some areas.
Forecasters advise travelers to stay updated on real-time conditions, as holiday traffic combined with fast-changing weather can create delays.
“The combination of heavy travel and deteriorating weather can catch drivers off guard,” one official emphasized.
Local Impact: What Shreveport Residents Should Expect
In Shreveport and surrounding communities, the immediate impact will be steady rainfall, muggy conditions early in the day, and periods of thunder as the front passes. By Sunday, colder air will settle in, accompanied by cloudy skies and a slight chance of lingering showers.
Residents planning outdoor activities this weekend should consider backup plans. Those traveling long distances, especially toward northern states, should be aware of rapidly changing temperatures and shifting storm patterns.
Safety Tips During Wet Weather
Given the expected surge in traffic and widespread rainfall, officials recommend the following precautions:
- Reduce speed on wet highways to avoid hydroplaning.
- Keep headlights on during rain or low visibility.
- Maintain extra distance between vehicles.
- Check windshield wipers and tire tread before traveling.
- Stay alert for sudden wind gusts, especially on bridges and overpasses.
These simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of weather-related accidents during the busy holiday return period.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Shreveport
- Friday: Partly sunny, high 58°F.
- Saturday: Widespread rain with thunderstorms possible, high 63°F.
- Sunday: Cooler with a slight rain chance, high 49°F.
- Monday: Mostly cloudy and cold, high 42°F.
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 48°F.
Conclusion
As a strong cold front approaches Louisiana this weekend, residents and travelers should prepare for a dramatic shift from warm, humid air to cold, damp conditions. With heavy rain, gusty winds, and holiday traffic all expected at once, planning ahead will be essential to staying safe on the road.
How is the weather affecting your Thanksgiving weekend plans? Share your experiences in the comments below.
