Louisiana Monthly Climate Review - January 2026

By Jay Grymes

Louisiana State Climatologist

January 2026 in Louisiana was marked by a major late-month ice storm that severely impacted the northern half of the state, causing widespread power outages, dangerous travel conditions, and nine fatalities. Temperatures fluctuated dramatically throughout the month, ranging from highs in the 80s early on to freezing conditions and wind chills in the teens by late January. Rainfall remained below average for the eighth consecutive month, contributing to ongoing drought conditions affecting up to two-thirds of the state.