LAFAYETTE, La. (KPEL News) - The historic blizzard conditions sweeping through South Louisiana will have a ton of impact on residents. Pipes have been wrapped, plants have been covered, and a lot of residents are hoping for as few traffic accidents as possible.

But one of the major impacts of any major weather event is the possibility of a power outage, and in extreme cold conditions, those could be dangerous for folks living through a once-in-a-century snowstorm like this.

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There are lots of ways the snow and ice could cause the electricity to go out. From falling branches and trees through power lines to a car skidding into a transformer, utility companies are already on high alert, with companies bringing in reinforcements ahead of the storm.


READ MORE: Help Arrives in Louisiana Before Historic Winter Storm


Because of the risks, local officials have been urging folks to stay home and not try to get out and explore this new winter wonderland we find ourselves in. However, those warnings don't stop everyone. We've already seen reports of folks out on the roads when they shouldn't be, which will unfortunately cause emergency responders to have to stretch their resources.

There have been some reports on social media of folks losing power in and around the Lafayette area. As of now, there are several thousand customers without power. Here's what we do know.

Power Outages Across Louisiana

Every utility company across the region is on high alert, and they are keeping track of outages and working to respond as quickly as possible to any scenario that may arise.

As of 11 a.m., there were multiple parishes reporting outages, and PowerOutage.us is showing a total of over 6,500 customers across South Louisiana were without power. Here's a look at where the outages are happening.

Credit: PowerOutage.us
Credit: PowerOutage.us
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The outages are concentrated in the Acadiana region, it seems. But outside of Acadiana, there are some areas with significantly more. St. Tammany Parish is reporting more than 1,700 customers without power.

Closer to home, Lafayette Parish has under 200 without power, though there are several reports of outages on social media in the Youngsville area. Vermilion Parish has more than 500 without power. Acadia has more than 400 out, while St. Landry has more than 350 out.

What to Do If the Power Goes Out During Snowstorm

If the power goes out during a snowstorm in Louisiana, staying safe and prepared is all about staying warm, informed, and avoiding unnecessary risks.

First and foremost, keeping warm should be a priority. Layer up with multiple pieces of clothing, hats, and gloves to trap body heat, and close off any unused rooms to contain warmth in key areas. Using blankets and sleeping bags can provide extra insulation, helping you and your family stay comfortable as temperatures drop.

Staying informed is just as important. A battery-powered radio can be a lifesaver for getting weather updates and emergency advisories when other options are down, and it’s wise to monitor your cell phone periodically to check for outage updates from your utility provider—just be sure to conserve battery power as much as possible.

Fire safety can’t be overlooked either. While it might be tempting to light candles, it's far safer to use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns to reduce fire risks. If you're using space heaters, ensure proper ventilation, especially with gas-powered ones, to avoid dangerous fumes building up indoors.

And when it comes to getting out and about, staying put is usually the best bet. Roads can be treacherous when icy, so unnecessary travel should be avoided until local emergency alerts indicate it’s safe to venture out.

At the end of the day, staying calm and acting smart can help you manage the situation until power is restored. Louisiana may not see snowstorms often, but a little preparation goes a long way when the unexpected happens.

10 Things Every True South Louisiana Driver Should Keep in Their Car

Living in South Louisiana comes with its own set of unique challenges, from unpredictable weather to surprise mosquito invasions. Whether you’re navigating backroads, chasing sunsets along the bayou, or heading to a crawfish boil, your car needs to be stocked with essentials that reflect life in the Pelican State. Here are the 10 must-have items every true South Louisianian should keep in their vehicle.

Gallery Credit: Joe Cunningham

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