Winter Freeze Arrives in the Red River Radio Listening Area

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (LaDOTD) has announced that the urban parts of Interstate-49 in Shreveport have been closed. This comes after the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a winter storm warning for portions of south-central Arkansas, north central and northwest Louisiana, and east Texas. This storm is expected to bring a heavy mix of precipitation, with a total of one inch of ice. The agency cautioned people to plan on slippery road conditions.
Road closures include:
* The northbound lanes of Interstate-49 between LA 526 and Interstate-20.
* Northbound and southbound lanes of I-49 between the I-220 interchange
* Southbound lanes from I-20 to LA 3132
* Connector ramp from LA 3132 westbound to I-49 southbound.
* Benton Road overpass over the KCS railroad tracks in Bossier City.
According to LaDOTD, emergency personnel will continue to monitor upcoming weather situations and will scout the area for safety on the roadways. In addition, DOTD crews will apply salt to any affected bridges and overpasses, remove fallen trees from the roadway and close roads as needed. Authorities caution that it is unsafe and unlawful to drive onto a closed road past a “road closed” barricade at any time for any reason." Meanwhile, the following shelters and warming centers are being made available for citizens:
* The Shreveport Bossier Rescue Mission at 901 McNeil Street.
* Hope Connections at 2350 Levy Street.
* Holy Missions at 1054 Texas Street.
Then, starting at 9:00 a.m. this morning [Monday, January 15, 2024] through 3:00 p.m., a warming center will be available with Snacks, warm beverages, and blankets at:
* Highland Center at 520 Olive Street, in Shreveport.
* Bilberry Park Community Center at 1902 Alabama Avenue.
* Airport Park Community Center at 6500 Kennedy Drive in Shreveport will be available today and Tuesday from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
* ALL SPAR Recreation Centers available beginning Tuesday, January 16 from 8am - 7pm.