Erin Davis/Axios Visuals New Orleans is going to be frigid next week and the National Weather Service is even talking about the stuff of myths — snow in south Louisiana. Why it matters: There's hope,

The winter storm next week is expected to dump up to 8 inches of snow in some areas and create hazardous road conditions in New Orleans, the northshore, Baton Rouge and Lafayette, with freezing temps for days.

School systems, colleges and universities are making decisions to cancel class or go virtual next week as the New Orleans metro prepares to deal with an arctic blast that could bring freezing rain or snow to much of southeast Louisiana.

The potential for snowfall on the Crescent City and the Red Stick next week is "looking increasingly possible," the National Weather Service in Slidell said Friday.

Snow is a rarity in the Crescent City, but history shows it’s not impossible. The last measurable snowfall in Orleans Parish was recorded on Dec. 4, 2009, when less than an inch fell, according to the National Weather Service in New Orleans.

A rare winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, sleet and freezing rain to Florida, Texas and other parts of the South next week. While some uncertainty remains over exactly how much snow will fall,

Baton Rouge doesn't usually get the right mix of cold and moisture for snow, according to the National Weather Service.

The utility said its stocking extra chemicals and filling storage tanks to maintain a safe and drinkable water supply.

The temperature is predicted to be around 22 degrees during the swearing-in, the coldest since Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration.

New Orleans residents, get ready for a mix of wet mornings and cool, breezy afternoons this week! From rain showers to sunny breaks, temperatures will range between 40°F (5°C) and 69°F (20°C). Whether you’re dodging rain or enjoying mild afternoons,

From New Orleans to the northshore to Baton Rouge to Lafayette, snow is looking more and more likely as a winter storm moves through the area. "The ceiling for this event could be something astonishing.

"“If you have to (go out) please exercise extreme caution." Frigid temperatures and inches of snow are expected in the New Orleans area this week.