Bossier Parish Officials Urge Residents to Remain Cautious Amid Extreme Low Temperatures and Lingering Road Hazards

As extremely low temperatures continue to grip the region this week, the Bossier Parish Police Jury is urging all residents to exercise caution, prepare for weather-related complications, and stay aware of ongoing hazards that remain in place even after the threat of additional winter precipitation has diminished.

Cold Weather and Utility Concerns for Consolidated Waterworks/Sewerage District #1 and Consolidated Waterworks/Sewerage District #2

Residents served by Consolidated Waterworks/Sewerage District #1 should be prepared for potential issues caused by sustained freezing temperatures, including:

• Frozen or burst water pipes
  Uninsulated exterior pipes, plumbing in crawl spaces, and pipes near exterior walls are at higher risk of freezing.
• Reduced water pressure
  Elevated system demand or partially frozen lines can lead to temporary drops in pressure throughout the district.
• Strain on sewer systems
  Extremely cold weather can cause mechanical components to operate more slowly and create delays in wastewater flow.

Mitigation Steps for Residents:

• Allow indoor faucets to drip slowly to keep water flowing.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Insulate or wrap any exposed outdoor plumbing.
• Know the location of your home’s main water shutoff valve in case a pipe ruptures.
• Avoid flushing items that can clog sewer systems—cold temperatures can slow wastewater movement, increasing the risk of backups.

The Waterworks District is monitoring system performance closely and will provide public updates if service disruptions arise.

Icy Road Conditions Persist: Avoid Travel if Possible

Although the threat of additional wintry mix has diminished, temperatures will remain below freezing for much of the week, preventing ice from fully melting on many parish roads. Shaded areas, bridges, overpasses, and rural roads remain especially hazardous.

The Bossier Parish Police Jury, Highway Department, and Public Works teams are continuing to address:

• Refreezing on previously treated roads
• Patches of black ice
• Limited visibility at night due to fading reflectors and frosted signage

Residents are strongly urged to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. If travel cannot be avoided:

• Reduce speed and increase following distance
• Avoid sudden braking or sharp turns
• Never drive around barricades
• Carry blankets, water, and emergency supplies in your vehicle

First responders and road crews continue to work extended shifts to keep critical routes passable, but hazardous conditions may persist in certain areas throughout the week.

Additional Impacts on Parish Services

Extreme cold can also affect other critical parish operations, including:

Public Works

• Slowed drainage due to frozen culverts
• Delays in garbage and debris pickup
• Increased risk of equipment failure or hydraulic issues caused by freezing fluids
• Slippery conditions around facility yards and service sites

Residents should place trash bins out only if the streets are safe enough for crews to access. Any service delays will be announced through official parish communication channels.

Highway Department

• Extended clearing operations for fallen limbs or storm debris
• Ongoing treatment of high-risk road surfaces
• Limited ability to use heavy equipment during extreme cold to avoid mechanical damage
• Monitoring for thaw‑and‑refreeze cycles that create potholes or uneven surfaces

A Unified Community Effort

Bossier Parish officials are asking all residents to remain patient, prepared, and alert as crews continue to mitigate risks throughout the parish. Staying off the roads, conserving utilities, and preparing homes for extreme temperatures will help reduce strain on emergency services and infrastructure teams.

And as a reminder to check on your elderly neighbors, homebound residents, and any animals in your care.  

“We appreciate everyone’s cooperation during this period of extreme cold,” Dr. Ken Ward, Parish Administrator, said. “By taking simple precautions and staying aware of conditions, residents can help protect themselves, their neighbors, and the crews working tirelessly across Bossier Parish.”