LAPLACE — An artic cold front moving in after midnight will usher in rainfall and some of the coldest temperatures of the season to the area.

Freeze warnings are expected to be issued by the National Weather Service and St. John the Baptist Parish residents should prepare for frigid temperatures through, at least, Wednesday.

There is also a small potential for brief snow flurries right before sunrise on Tuesday before the precipitation ends. However, no accumulating snow is likely for Parishes south of Lake Pontchartrain, according to St. John officials.

The main threats with this event will be below freezing temperatures and bitterly cold wind chills.

St. John Residents should take precautions:

• Pets and plants should be brought inside; cover outside plants

• Other animals or livestock should be sheltered

• Insulate outdoor faucets with faucet covers, rags, paper or trash bags, or plastic foam

• Space heaters should be 36 inches from anything flammable and off when not in use

• Generators should never be used inside a home, garage or any partially enclosed area

• Keep flashlights, extra food and water and other safety items readily available

• Maintain contact with the elderly and those considered at risk

• Dress warmly and keep exposed skin covered if outdoors

Parish Officials will monitor weather forecasts for updates and changes, and residents should do the same. Sign up for emergency alerts to your home phone, cell phone, email or SMS text-messing device by visiting the Parish website and clicking on “Stay Connected.”

— Submitted by St. John Communications.