Colder weather is expected to move into Rapides Parish this week, bringing gusty north winds, cooler daytime temperatures and freezing overnight lows before a gradual warmup later in the week.

Monday is forecast to be mostly sunny with a high near 52 degrees. North winds of 10 to 15 mph are expected throughout the day, with gusts reaching up to 30 mph. Temperatures will fall Monday night, with partly cloudy skies and lows around 31 degrees as winds diminish.

Tuesday will remain cool but sunny, with highs near 49 degrees and north winds of 5 to 10 mph. Clear skies Tuesday night will allow temperatures to drop further, with lows around 28 degrees and calm winds, creating the potential for freezing conditions.

A warming trend begins midweek. Wednesday is expected to be sunny with highs near 59 degrees, with light southwest winds developing later in the day. Overnight lows Wednesday night will remain chilly, dropping to around 35 degrees under mostly clear skies.

Conditions will continue to moderate heading into the New Year. New Year’s Day is forecast to be mostly sunny with highs near 66 degrees. Thursday night will be mostly cloudy with lows around 48 degrees.

Rain chances return late in the week, with a 20 percent chance of showers on Friday and Friday night. Highs on Friday are expected to reach near 72 degrees, with overnight lows around 52 degrees. The weekend forecast calls for sunny conditions Saturday with highs near 69 degrees, cooling slightly Saturday night before mostly sunny skies and highs near 64 degrees on Sunday.

With freezing temperatures expected Monday night and Tuesday night, residents are encouraged to take precautions to protect homes, pets and people. Exposed pipes should be insulated or allowed to drip, and outdoor faucets should be covered. Space heaters should be used safely and never left unattended.

Pet owners are advised to bring animals indoors or ensure they have adequate shelter and warmth. Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and others who may be vulnerable during colder weather.

Drivers should use caution during early morning hours, especially on bridges and overpasses where icy spots could develop if temperatures fall below freezing. Staying informed and taking simple precautions can help keep residents safe as colder conditions move through Rapides Parish.