When it comes to handling the cold, we Louisianians might find ourselves a bit out of our element. Sure, we’re more accustomed to the humid heat of the bayou than frosty nights and early mornings, but winter has its own way of surprising us down here in the boot. Just like those disrespectful summer days demand certain precautions, the chilly season calls for its own set of rules – especially when it comes to what we leave in our cars. Here are six items you definitely don’t want to leave in your vehicle when a cold snap comes knocking.
“Winter” in Louisiana
Down in Louisiana, winter isn’t always what you’d expect. Sure, we might see the calendar hit December and think of festive snowfalls, but our reality often includes milder temperatures and the occasional unexpected cold snap. One day, we might be enjoying a comfortable 70 degrees, and the next, a cold front sweeps in, dropping temperatures dramatically. It’s these sudden changes that can catch us, and our belongings, off guard.
The Cold Truth About Louisiana’s Winter
Louisiana’s summers are known for their heat, and how it turns our cars into ovens if left in the sun. In the same way, winter’s cold snaps can be equally harsh, but in the opposite extreme. When a cold blast hits, especially those that plunge our morning temperatures into the frosty 20s or teens, there are certain items in our cars that could suffer – or cause trouble.
Six Must-Remove Items Before a Louisiana Cold Snap
Here’s a rundown of what you should get out of your car before the mercury falls too low:
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Canned Food
Calle Macarone, UnsplashCalle Macarone, Unsplash
In both extreme heat and cold, canned goods can swell. While they might still be safe to eat if the can remains intact, it’s a risk not worth taking.
Canned Soda or Bottled Drinks
James Yarema, UnsplashJames Yarema, Unsplash
Ever left a drink in the freezer too long? It bursts. The same principle applies to your car in freezing temperatures. Avoid the mess and potential damage.
Wood Instruments
This might not apply to everyone, but if you’re the one in a thousand with a wooden instrument in your car, know that extreme cold can warp or crack the wood.
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Electronics
Toby56, unsplashToby56, unsplash
Like the summer heat, cold weather can damage the battery of your electronics. Additionally, quick temperature changes can cause condensation, leading to further damage.
Eye Glasses
Redowan Dhrub, UnsplashRedowan Dhrub, Unsplash
The frames, lenses, or special coatings of your glasses could be compromised by the extreme cold, rendering them useless.
Medications
Towfiqu Barbhuiya, Unsplash
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Towfiqu Barbhuiya, Unsplash
Certain medications, like insulin or pills, can lose their effectiveness or be physically altered by extreme temperatures.
So, as we navigate the unpredictable winter months in Louisiana, let’s remember to keep our cars clear of these items. A little preparation can go a long way in avoiding winter woes! Stay warm, Louisiana!
LOOK: The most expensive weather and climate disasters in recent decades
Stacker ranked the most expensive climate disasters by the billions since 1980 by the total cost of all damages, adjusted for inflation, based on 2021 data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The list starts with Hurricane Sally, which caused $7.3 billion in damages in 2020, and ends with a devastating 2005 hurricane that caused $170 billion in damage and killed at least 1,833 people. Keep reading to discover the 50 of the most expensive climate disasters in recent decades in the U.S.
Newlab New Orleans is deepening its energy-tech ambitions with a new partnership alongside JERA, Japan’s largest power generator, to accelerate next-generation carbon capture solutions for heavy industries across Louisiana and the Gulf Coast, The Center Square writes.
The collaboration brings JERA Ventures into Newlab’s public-private innovation hub, where startups gain access to lab space and high-end machinery to commercialize technologies aimed at cutting emissions and improving industrial efficiency.
The move builds momentum as Newlab prepares to open its fifth global hub next fall at the former Naval Support Activity site, adding New Orleans to a network that includes Riyadh and Detroit. JERA’s footprint in Louisiana is already growing—from a joint venture on CF Industries’ planned $4 billion low-carbon ammonia plant to investments in solar generation and Haynesville shale assets—positioning the company as a significant player in the state’s clean-energy transition.
Federal immigration authorities are keeping a tight lid on key details as “Catahoula Crunch” closes its first week in southeast Louisiana, Verite writes.
The operation—one of Department of Homeland Security’s largest recent urban crackdowns—began with raids at home-improvement stores and aims for 5,000 arrests, according to plans previously reviewed by the Associated Press. While DHS publicly highlighted arrests of immigrants with violent criminal records, AP data shows fewer than one-third of the 38 detainees in the first two days had prior convictions.
Meanwhile, advocacy groups report widespread fear in Hispanic communities, with residents avoiding hospitals, schools, workplaces and even grocery stores amid sightings of federal agents.
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Business impacts are already visible: restaurants and Hispanic-serving corridors like Broad Street appear unusually quiet, with staff shortages forcing menu cuts and temporary closures. School absenteeism has doubled in Jefferson Parish, and protests have spread across New Orleans and surrounding suburbs as local leaders demand transparency around federal tactics.
BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — The Louisiana State Police is opening its doors throughout December, hosting open house events aimed at giving potential applicants a closer look at what it takes to become a state trooper.
Troop leaders said the goal is to recruit men and women who are prepared for the demands of the job and committed to serving their communities.
Troop A Public Information Officer Shelby Mayfield said the open houses are designed to make the application process more accessible.
“One of the reasons we generated these open houses was to allow our applicants to come in and get a look inside the troop, meet some state troopers from across the troop area, and ask whatever questions they may have to the recruiters who are present,” Mayfield said.
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Along with information sessions, Mayfield said the events help future applicants better understand the daily responsibilities of law enforcement and the mindset troopers are expected to bring to the job.
“We want to make sure that that trooper knows how important officer safety is,” he said. “But more importantly, we want to make sure they go out there with a pure heart.”
The Louisiana State Police Training Academy is known for its rigorous curriculum that prepares cadets for real-world situations. From crash investigations to communication skills, instructors focus on developing well-rounded troopers who can serve safely and effectively.
Mayfield said applicants must be ready for a variety of interactions, not just emergencies.
“Not everything is going to be a high-intensity, rapidly evolving situation,” he said. “You need to be able to deal with the public to accomplish your job, and that’s why we preach not just getting the job done, but being able to relate to the public so you can meet their needs.”
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The application deadline for Cadet Class 109 is Jan. 6, 2026. Mayfield encourages anyone who feels called to the profession to take the next step.
“If this is something you genuinely have in your heart to do, reach out to somebody when it’s convenient for you,” he said. “Even if you miss a deadline, never give up because it’s never too late.”
Open house events will continue throughout the month at troop locations across Louisiana. More information on Cadet Class 109 and the application process is available on the Louisiana State Police website.
