Winter Storm Warnings in New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans sits in a subtropical climate where true winter storms are extraordinarily rare events. Across the 13 years analyzed from 2012 through 2024, the city averaged just 0.1 inches (0.3 cm) of snowfall per year — a figure so small it barely registers as measurable. There are no standout snowiest months to speak of, and the data recorded zero heavy-snow days and zero major-snow days on an average annual basis. When snow does fall here, it tends to be a fleeting dusting that melts almost immediately on contact with the ground.
Average winter low temperatures hover around 50.7°F (10.4°C), which helps explain why significant accumulation is essentially unheard of. The Gulf of Mexico's moderating influence keeps the region mild even in the coldest months.
It's worth understanding that a winter storm warning carries a different meaning depending on where you are. The National Weather Service sets thresholds based on regional norms — what qualifies as a warning-level event in Louisiana would be considered a light dusting in northern states. In New Orleans, even a trace of snow can trigger significant disruption to roads and infrastructure, so any official winter storm warning issued here should be taken seriously despite the relatively modest snowfall amounts involved.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 0.1 in (0.3 cm) |
| Snowiest months | None — measurable snow is rare here |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 50.7°F (10.4°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in New Orleans within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
New Orleans winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in New Orleans right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for New Orleans, Louisiana. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does New Orleans get winter storm warnings often?
New Orleans rarely sees measurable snow, so winter storm warnings are uncommon; even a light snow or ice event can be highly disruptive here. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in New Orleans?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own. In a lower-snow area like New Orleans, warnings can be issued for amounts snowier regions would shrug off.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in New Orleans?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Louisiana authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Baton Rouge, LA
- Winter storm warning in Jackson, MS
- Winter storm warning in Pensacola, FL
- Winter storm warning in Montgomery, AL
- Winter storm warning in Shreveport, LA
- Winter storm warning in Tupelo, MS
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.