The state highway department will get a billion federal dollars over the next five years to rebuild Louisiana’s old and dilapidated bridges. Jeff Palermo has the story…:

CUT 02(31)      “…Palermo.”

An air & water search is underway in Lafourche Parish, after residents report seeing a helicopter go down in wetlands near the town of Larose. The crash reportedly happened around 10 this morning. Sheriff Craig Webre says deputies are searching the area now for wreckage and possible survivors. More as it develops.

A corroded pipeline is being blamed for a diesel fuel spill in St. Bernard Parish. Hundreds of land animals are reported dead as a result. LDWF’s Lara Carver says as many as 2500 fish were killed as well…:

CUT 07(05)      “…and shad.”

Cleanup crews are on the job, and animals found alive are being trapped and taken for rehabilitation.

Cold winter weather revisits the state, as rain and another front move through this weekend. State Climatologist Barry Keim says areas around I-20 should be prepared for he calls a “wintery mix” of precipitation…:

CUT 09(13)      “…the Florida parishes”

Keim expects it get plenty cold, but no hard freeze is expected. Bundle up.