Louisiana Winter Storm: Power Outages and Restoration Efforts

In January 2026, Louisiana experienced a severe winter storm, referred to as Winter Storm Fern, which resulted in widespread power outages and hazardous conditions across the state. The storm brought freezing temperatures, ice accumulation, and dangerous road conditions, particularly affecting central and northern Louisiana. As of January 26, approximately 120,000 customers were without power, with Ouachita Parish being the hardest hit, accounting for over 45,000 outages.

Louisiana faces days of dangerous cold as outages linger and death toll rises

Entergy Louisiana has mobilized its storm team to assess damage and restore power. The company anticipates that 90% of customers in areas with favorable access along the I-20 corridor, including Ouachita Parish, will have power restored by January 28. Restoration efforts in more challenging areas may extend through January 29. Entergy emphasizes that restoration is a step-by-step process, beginning with essential services, followed by larger neighborhoods, and finally individual homes. Crews face challenges such as downed vegetation and icy road conditions that hinder access to damaged infrastructure.

Entergy Louisiana gives restoration timeline following winter storm

Governor Jeff Landry has highlighted the ongoing dangers posed by the bitter cold and power outages, urging residents to take precautions. He noted that the state remains in a critical phase of the storm, with temperatures expected to remain dangerously low. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) is actively working to treat roadways and clear debris to facilitate utility restoration efforts. Additionally, 76 warming centers are operational statewide to provide shelter for those in need.

Louisiana faces days of dangerous cold as outages linger and death toll rises

Public safety officials have raised concerns about improper heating methods and generator use, which have led to fatalities. The Louisiana Department of Health reported two hypothermia-related deaths and a carbon monoxide poisoning incident linked to generator use. Officials are urging residents to utilize generators safely, ensuring they are placed outdoors and away from living spaces.

Louisiana faces days of dangerous cold as outages linger and death toll rises

While Entergy Louisiana reported approximately 120,000 customers without power, other sources indicated that the number of outages peaked at around 114,000. The discrepancy highlights the challenges in tracking real-time restoration progress amid ongoing assessments.

Entergy Louisiana gives restoration timeline following winter storm

As restoration efforts continue, Entergy Louisiana and state officials are preparing for potential further cold weather impacts, which may complicate recovery efforts. The state has approved a federal emergency declaration and plans to seek a major disaster declaration to address the aftermath of the storm, including debris cleanup.

Louisiana faces days of dangerous cold as outages linger and death toll rises

“Please be diligent. Be very careful around the use of heating devices in your home.” — Gov. Jeff Landry

Louisiana faces days of dangerous cold as outages linger and death toll rises

“We restore customers in a planned and deliberate order,” — Entergy Louisiana

Ouachita Parish hardest hit by winter storm, commissioner says

“Carbon monoxide is a silent killer,” — Gov. Jeff Landry

Louisiana faces days of dangerous cold as outages linger and death toll rises

“For people without power, indoor temperatures are going to get dangerously cold,” — State Climatologist Jay Grymes

Louisiana faces days of dangerous cold as outages linger and death toll rises