Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry issued a “state of emergency” order Saturday ahead of a nasty winter storm that's expected to hit Louisiana this week. Landry’s declaration unlocks direct state assistance to support operational measures at the parish level.

Gov. Jeff Landry declared a state of emergency Saturday in preparation for the winter weather expected to hit Louisiana early next week, when snow is expected to accumulate in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued extreme cold warnings for the state in effect from Monday through Thursday.

Governor Jeff Landry declares winter weather emergency in Louisiana with National Weather Service issuing extreme cold warnings.