Several water systems across the state are struggling with low water pressure after the fridged temps. In Caddo Parish 21 pallets of water were distributed in some town should the water systems fail. Sgt. Casey Jones with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office says they are asking residents to conserve water by limiting shower times and…

Cut 8 (07)  “…that nature.“

The weather has also caused numerous flight cancellations and with college bowl games and Triple A’s Nick Chabarria says travel to those destinations could be snarled as airlines play catch-up from last weekend.

Cut 10 (11) “…coming weekend.” 

He advises checking before you drive to the airport to see if you’re flight has been canceled and download the app for your airline to receive notifications.

State Police say a fatal crash in Ascension Parish Monday serves as another tragic reminder of the importance of seat belt use. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

A winning Powerball ticket purchased in Ascension Parish is still unclaimed and set to expire next month. The $50,000 lottery Powerball ticket was purchased at Fisherman’s One Stop on Highway 22. The Powerball prize was won on Saturday, July 30, Officials said the winning ticket matched four of the five numbers drawn and the red Powerball number to win. That ticket will expire on January 26^th if not redeemed.

Several towns and cities in the state are under a boil advisory as a result of the weather. In Caddo Parish, water pressure is an issue and Sgt Casey Jones with the sheriff’s office says as a precautionary measure pallets of water have been distributed in Belcher, Gilliam, Greenwood, and Blanchard should systems fail in those towns.

Cut 7 (08)  “…was needed.”

State Police say a fatal wreck in Ascension Parish yesterday killed 39-year-old Brandi Hall, of Darrow she was a passenger in a vehicle whose driver did not cause the accident. Trooper Christian Reed says it happened on US 61 around 3:30 in the afternoon. He says Hall nor the driver were properly restrained.

Cut 4 (08)  “…state law” 

The weather continues to cause several travel delays and flight cancellations across the country. Nick Chabarria with Triple-A says Southwest airlines has had the most cancellations compared to other airlines. And after numerous airlines had cancellations over the weekend now, they are playing catch up.

Cut 9 (06) “…to get home.” 

And with college bowl games on tap Chabarria says travel to those destinations could be impacted also. He recommends you download the app for your airline to receive notifications along with ways to rebook your fights should you need to.

In St. Charles Parish, a former Destrehan  High School teacher 32-year-old Kyle Aucion-Melohn faces one count of prohibited sexual conduct between an educator and a student and one count of molestation of a juvenile. The sheriff’s office says they received an anonymous tip on December 1st the teacher was molesting male students. If you have any information about this case, you’re asked to contact the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s office.

State Police say a fatal wreck in Ascension Parish yesterday killed a passenger in a vehicle whose driver did not cause the accident. Trooper Christian Reed says it happened on US 61 around 3:30 PM.

Cut 3 (07) “…head on.” 

Reed says the passenger was 39-year-old Brandi Hall, of Darrow. He says she wasn’t wearing a seat belt and died instantly. He says the driver wasn’t wearing one either but survived.

There are several boil advisories for much of Northwest Louisiana and in Caddo Parish, four towns are taking precautions due to low water pressure from the extended freeze. Pallets of water have been distributed to Belcher, Gilliam, Greenwood, and Blanchard. Sargent Casey Jones with the Sheriff’s Office says public works distributed water.

Cut 6 (09)  “…parish towns.”

The cold weather caused residents to run their water as a precaution to keep their pipes from freezing it impacted water pressure in the parish. Jones says they wanted to prepare for the worst should the water systems fail.

As many of us return to work today, it’s still pretty cold for those of us here in the Bayou State. But State Climatologist Barry Keim says high temperatures in Louisiana are going to be a bit warmer.

Cut 10 (12) “…low to 50s to the south.” 

Wednesday morning, Keim says we’ll still be feeling that artic air that’s settled into the region but by midday, we’ll begin to experience a shift.

The Louisiana Department of Health confirms two storm-related deaths in Caddo Parish. The Caddo Parish Coroner says a 30-year-old female and her 8-year-old son who died of blunt force trauma after a tornado destroyed their home on December 13^th.  The woman’s body was found the next morning under the wreckage and the child’s body was found Tuesday night in a wooded area.

Lt Governor Billy Nungesser is considering whether he’ll seek higher office next year. Senator John Kennedy may decide to run, and Nungesser says he owes it to others who may want to run for Lt. Governor to make up his mind quickly…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…love this job.”

Nungesser says he plans to announce his decision on January 10^th.

Louisiana will be featured in the annual Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California for the second year. The float theme will be “Turning a Corner” and will feature numerous riders, including Franklin Parish native country star Lainey Wilson. Another rider is 22-year-old Pineville native Jordan Fuqua, the reigning Miss Louisiana Association of Fairs & Festivals…:

Cut 4 (10)  “…in Pasadena.”

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels will continue to wear purple and gold next year, he’s returning for another season. Tiger Rag Assistant Editor William Weathers says with Daniels onboard the outlook for wins in 2023 has greatly improved.

Cut 15 (09)  “…against Purdue.”

Daniels and the Tigers will play in Orlando in the Citrus Bowl on January second.

Louisiana will be featured on national TV again this year, with its “Turning a Corner” float in the Tournament of Roses Parade the day after New Year’s. Brooke Thorington talked with one of the float riders…:

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

________________________________________________________

With the coming New Year for Louisiana comes big elections, including who will the next Governor. Will Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser be in that race? Or seek re-election? More from Brooke Thorington…:

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

We’ve all heard the expression if you don’t like the weather just wait a day, it appears that mantra is right on cue. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

________________________________________________

Once again this year, Louisiana will be featured in the annual Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena, California; which rolls on Monday the 2^nd. The float theme will be “Turning a Corner” and will feature numerous riders, including Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and Franklin Parish native country star Lainey Wilson. Another rider is 22-year-old Pineville native Jordan Fuqua, the reigning Miss Louisiana Association of Fairs & Festivals…:

Cut 4 (10)  “…in Pasadena.”

The float will be a representation of a riverboat, with all surfaces made of flowers or other plants; a Rose Parade tradition and rule. Fuqua says the theme of “Turning a Corner” is appropriate for the Bayou State’s entry…:

Cut 5 (14) “…better than ever.”

Fuqua says she is honored to be able to represent her family and her state on a national platform like the Rose parade, which is also broadcast around the globe…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…our Lt. Governor.” 

________________________________________________

As we approach the beginning of 2023 – a big election year for Louisiana – many wonder what Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser’s plans may be. Will he run for governor? Or seek re-election to his current position? Nungesser tells LRN he’s been very encouraged by the numbers asking him to seek the top job…:

Cut 7 (06) “…make up my mind.”

If Nungesser does seek the Governor’s Mansion, he’d have to – win or lose – say farewell to being head of Culture, Recreation & Tourism for the state. He says folks in the tourism industry are supportive of his run, but he says many also want him to stay and run for re-election. He says he will have an answer for all concerned by January 10^th…:

Cut 8 (05)  “…tough decision.”

As a candidate for governor next fall, Nungesser would be up against Attorney General Jeff Landry, who already has state Republican Party backing. Senator John Kennedy may decide to run as well. Nungesser says he owes it to others who may want to run for Lt. Governor to make up his mind quickly…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…love this job.”

__________________________________________

As many of us return to work today, it’s still pretty cold for those of us here in the Bayou State. But State Climatologist Barry Keim says high temperatures in Louisiana are going to be a bit warmer.

Cut 10 (12) “…low to 50s to the south.” 

Wednesday morning, Keim says we’ll still be feeling that artic air that’s settled into the region but by midday, we’ll begin to experience a shift.

Cut 11 (08)  “…parts of the state.”

By Thursday the frigid air should have moved on and Keim says lows will be in the 50s and highs in the 70s.

Cut 12 (08) “…big, big shift.”

______________________________________________

If Jayden Daniels returning to play for the Tigers next season was on your Christmas Wish List, you’re very happy to know he’s planning to stick around the 2023 season.  Tiger Rag assistant editor William Weathers says it gives Tiger fans high hopes for next year.

Cut 13 (07) “…immeasurable.”

Weathers says Daniels forgoing the NFL draft is a credit to LSU head coach Brian Kelly and staff for building a program that Daniels wants to remain part of a bit longer along. It’s also significant how Daniels grew over the season.

Cut 14 (10)  “…year’s team.”

But before the next season kicks off Daniels hopes to lead the Bayou Bengals to victory next month at the Citrus Bowl. Weathers says with Daniels onboard the outlook for wins in 2023 has greatly improved.

Cut 15 (09)  “…against Purdue.”

Kickoff for the January 2nd game in Orlando is at noon and the game will air on ABC.

______________________________________________

Cut  16 (19)  “..good match.” 

Cut 17 (18) “…perfectly fine.” 

 ______________________________________________

Cut 18 (19) “…most of it.” 

  ______________________________________________

Cut 19 (27) “…take of business”

Cut 20 (23)     ….of the year” 

Plumbers tell us the extended freeze we had over the weekend was very hard on plumbing.  Marsanne Golsby talked to a plumber.

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

If you’re on the road today, you’ve noticed gas is cheaper than it was a year ago. Triple A says the statewide average today for regular gas is $2.75, that’ down 28-cents from last year, and 33-cents less than a month ago. For road conditions and closing call 5-1-1.

State Wildlife & Fisheries agents say do not be surprised to see some fairly large fish kills in Louisiana waterways over the coming days. LDWF Director of Marine Fisheries Chris Schieble (SHE-blee) says these often happen when the temperature drops suddenly and the water cools and contracts…:

Cut 7 (09) “…that happen.”

You asked to contact wildlife and fisheries if you see a fish kill.

If you are suffering from holiday depression LSU Health New Orleans Chair of Psychiatry Dr. Rahn Bailey says don’t feel guilty about saying no to things like holiday parties or spending time with people who make you feel uncomfortable. Hs says to find activities that bring you joy and spend time with those who bring you enjoyment instead of dread.

Cut 15 (12)  “…holiday season.”

This year you can dial 988 to speak with a trained counselor if you have mental health needs.

The East Baton Rouge Coroner’s Office has released the name of the four-year-old boy who was separated from his father after a hike on Saturday and was found in the Amite River. The child is identified as Marias Stricker Abreu. Multiple agencies responded to the 9-1-1 call when his father could not locate the child and after an hour long search the child was found in the Amite River and a fireman jumped in to rescue him. The child later died at the hospital. An autopsy is pending.

Plumbers expect to be getting lots of service calls due to the extended freeze. Baton Rouge plumber Tim Bourriague BOUR-EE-AGH urges people not to try plumbing repairs unless they already know how because they could cause more damage and says the next few days will be challenging for a lot of us…:

Cut 6 (07)  “…to go around 

If you do suspect a leak turn off the water supply to your home.

Don’t be surprised to see fish kills as a result of the extended frigid temperatures. State Wildlife Director of Marine Fisheries Chris Schieble (SHE-blee) says it may take some time before the impacts of the freeze have had on fish is noticeable…:

Cut 9 (12)  “…if there is any.”

He says if you do see any please call wildlife and fisheries.

Holiday depression refers to situational depression that’s often experienced during the holidays. LSU Health New Orleans Chair of Psychiatry Dr. Rahn Bailey for those who suffer from depression it’s often worsened when they compare themselves to others who seem to have it all this time of year.

Cut 14 (10)  “…they need.”

This year you can dial 988 to speak with a trained counselor if you have mental health needs.

Two people were killed, and four others wounded in the Lower 9^th Ward of New Orleans at 12:30 this morning. When first responders arrived, they found two nineteen-year old’s, one male and one female, deceased and four others wounded. Investigators say there was a large party in the 2000 block of St. Maurice Street where the shooting occurred. The injured victims are two 18-year-old males, one 18-year-old female, and a 17-year-old female. NOPD says they were treated at a local hospital and the injuries are not life-threatening.

Plumbers expect their phones to be ringing due to the extended freeze. Baton Rouge plumber Tim Bourriague BOUR-EE-AGH says if you suspect you’ve got problems, here’s what you do…:

Cut 5 (11) “…incoming line.”

He says if the incoming line doesn’t work then shut it off at the meter, by lifting the lid and using a device to turn it off.

State wildlife says don’t be surprised to see fish kills as a result of the extended frigid temperatures. LDWF Director of Marine Fisheries Chris Schieble (SHE-blee) says Sand Seatrout, Red Drum, Black Drum, and Spotted Seatrout are most likely to be impacted and some of our most popular plate fish are usually tougher when it comes to low temps…:

Cut 8 (10)  “…not as hardy.”

The statewide average for a gallon of regular gas is $2.75, that’s down 28-cents from a year ago. Triple A spokesperson Nick Chabarria says the cold temps could cause some areas of the country to see a drop in demand, but he doesn’t believe it would make a lasting impact on prices.

Cut 12 (07) “…road trips.”

One of the most anticipated cold fronts of the year has moved through Louisiana and winter has arrived right on cue. State Climatologist Barry Keim says most of the state will remain below freezing today, with the exception of the most extreme coastal parishes but it will be short-lived.

Cut 9 (13) “…though.” 

The U.S. House has passed a $1.7-trillion spending bill. The same one that passed in the Senate Thursday.  Senator John Kennedy was angry with Democrats and fellow Republicans who voted for it…:

Cut 7 (15)  “…enough money.”

The bill now goes to the President for his signature.

State treasurer John Schroder says he has an outside-the-gift box suggestion that will last much longer than most Christmas gifts. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

Christmas came early for Tiger fans with the announcement that Quarterback Jayden Daniels will stay at LSU to play next year. Daniels opted not to join the NFL draft. Daniels will lead the Bayou Bengals in the Citrus Bowl Monday, January 2^nd when they play Purdue. The Tigers are looking for their 10th win for the season.

State treasurer John Schroder says he has an outside-the-gift box suggestion that will last much longer than most Christmas gifts. Marsanne Golsby has more.

Cut 1(30)  “…I’m Marsanne Golsby.”

______________________________________

It’s definitely cold outside but will it warm up any for Christmas? Brooke Thorington has more from State Climatologist Barry Keim.

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

______________________________________

If you’re looking to give a Christmas gift that will last long past this season, State Treasurer John Schroder has an outside-the-gift-box suggestion—an education savings plan.

Cut 3 (07) “…your friends.” 

Schroder says there are two START savings plans. One is for college, the other for eligible K-12 schools. He says you have until the end of this year for deposits to the account to be eligible for 2022 tax deductions on your state and federal income taxes.

Schroder says similar plans are wildly popular in other states but are underused here.

Cut 4 (06)  “…in Louisiana” 

Schroder says the state will match up to 14 percent of deposits as an enhancement to get people to participate.

Cut 5 (10) “…tax rate.”

For more information, go to startsaving.la.gov

_______________________________________________

Both of Louisiana’s Senators voted against the budget which ended up passing 68-29. Kennedy says he opposed the budget because it was written by Senators Mitch McConnell and Chuck Schumer and, Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Another reason he voted in opposition is inflation.

Cut 6 (14)  “…much money.”

Kennedy not only called out Democrats for overspending he chastised his own party as well.

Cut 7 (15)  “…enough money.”

The budget which included $772.5 billion for domestic programs and $858 billion in defense would carry federal agencies through the end of the fiscal on September 30^th.  Kennedy says there are just too many members of Congress that have no qualms about overspending.

Cut 8 (11)  “…to get the money.“

The bill passed mostly along party lines in House 225-201 Friday and heads to the President for his signature.

___________________________________________

One of the most anticipated cold fronts of the year has moved through Louisiana and winter has arrived right on cue. State Climatologist Barry Keim says most of the state will remain below freezing today, with the exception of the most extreme coastal parishes but it will be short-lived.

Cut 9 (13) “…though.” 

Keim says it will still be cold but just above freezing in the mid and upper 30s for the highs on Saturday.

As for Christmas Day, Keim says to expect another bitterly cold day but a slight increase in temperatures. Instead of seeing teens in north Louisiana temps will be in the lower 20s.

Cut 10 (07) “…freeze mark.” 

If you’re looking for warmer temps in the Bayou State, Keim says you’ll have to wait until Wednesday.

Cut 11 (11)  “…beautiful day.”

Remember to dress in layers, and continue to protect your pets, pipes, and plants.

_______________________________________________

With cold weather gripping Louisiana, Commissioner of Agriculture Mike Strain says even though most livestock is more cold-resistant than pets, they still need special care in this weather.

Cut 12 (07) “…sugar in them”  

Strain, who is also a veterinarian, says cows usually do okay if it’s cold and dry. But if possible, horses need to be in barns during extremely cold weather.

Cut 13 (07) “…too hot.”  

He recommends adding heat lamps to chicken coops. And he says it is important to remember that even in very cold weather livestock need to stay hydrated

Cut 14 (05)   “…can drink”

___________________________________________

Cut 15 (10) “…can qualify.”

Cut  16 (07)  “…coroners office.”