Big freeze turns New Orleans frosty for Mardi Gras’ Fat Tuesday.
Mayor LaToya Cantrell issued an emergency declaration on Sunday for the City of New Orleans due to freezing temperatures that were anticipated over the next few days.
The National Weather Service forecast a mix of rain, freezing rain, sleet or snow would reach New Orleans beginning late morning Monday. The forecast temperatures were accurate, with NOLA reaching 25 degrees last night.
@nolaready: The #NWSNewOrleans has issued a Hard Freeze Watch Monday night into Tuesday morning. Dangerously cold wind chills are expected #MardiGras morning. Protect:
👵🏾people
🐶pets
🚰pipes
🪴plants🔗https://t.co/2iY1VZzedn pic.twitter.com/C6HxtftU8A
— Mayor LaToya Cantrell (@mayorcantrell) February 14, 2021
The emergency decleration that came from the Mayor was focused on the city’s homeless population. Following this, the City authorities held an emergency conference call with providers of shelter for the homeless and other vulnerable people.
There were serious travel restrictions implemented all over the city, with officials advising locals stay inside, check the pipes, and stay warm. The STAR transit system has even been suspended, and will continue to last through Mardi Gras.
Citizens woke up to a frozen New Orleans yesterday, and even more so today for Fat Tuesday, which was heavily regulated due to the ongoing pandemic.
The weather may be a suitable metaphor for 2021’s cancelled Carnival, but it hasn’t stopped New Orleans from celebrating. Several alternative ways to celebrate have taken over the city, and have continued to keep NOLA’s Mardi Gras spirit alive.
Featured Image: Debby Lowe via Shutterstock