Freeze Watch issued as temperatures tumble

LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) - A strong cold front has ushered in chilly temperatures that will get even colder in the coming days. Tonight, winds remain strong with clear skies as temperatures fall into the 30s. With winds still sustained around 15 mph Monday morning, feels-like temperatures will be in the 20s. Bundle up as it will certainly feel like winter outside!

Monday will see plentiful sunshine, but temperatures will only reach the mid 50s in the afternoon hours. Strong winds are once again expected, and with the dry air and drought conditions around, fires will spread easily around the area. A Fire Weather Watch is in place for the area - DO NOT burn anything outdoors Monday! Winds lessen as the day goes on, leading to the coldest night of the next week. A light freeze is expected for most of Acadiana. A FREEZE WATCH has been issued for temperatures falling below 32 degrees. Widespread frost is also expected Tuesday morning, so plan on needing extra time to clear the frost from your windshield!

Tuesday afternoon sees a drastic warm up of over 30 degrees as highs climb into the mid 60s. This begins a return to spring-like weather for the area through the remainder of the week. Afternoon temperatures into next weekend will reach near 80 and mornings will likely see fog formation thanks to temperatures settling in the 60s. By next Saturday, another system works through Acadiana bringing a risk of storms. It is too early to say for certain if severe weather will be a threat, but that is something to monitor in the week ahead.

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