Let’s take a look not only at the coldest spot in the state but where the coldest temperature ever recorded in Louisiana was. Then, we’ll learn about the history of the state’s coldest city. After that, we’ll take a look at what types of wildlife you can expect to see near the coldest place in Alabama. Finally, we’ll find out what there is to do, and see, in the area.
The Coldest Place in Louisiana
With a maximum average temperature of just 68 degrees Fahrenheit, Shreveport is the coldest place in Louisiana. The average temperature in the state is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. January is the coldest month, with an average minimum temperature of 43 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest temperature ever recorded in Louisiana is -16 degrees Fahrenheit, recorded in Minden in February of 1899. Minden is only a few miles east of Shreveport, so it’s no surprise that that’s where the coldest-ever temperature was recorded. Louisiana is located in the American South, and shares a border with the Gulf of Mexico. Its climate is classified as humid subtropical, so you wouldn’t typically expect cold temperatures there. Summers may be boiling hot, but winters do cool down in this southern state, particularly in the northwestern corner. Because of Louisiana’s proximity to the coast, and low elevation, much of the state is vulnerable to tropical storms and hurricanes. Let’s find out if the same is true for Shreveport.
Shreveport
The Shreveport metropolitan area is one of the largest in the state, with nearly 400,000 residents. The city is unevenly divided into east and west by the Red River, with most of the urban areas on the west bank. Shreveport isn’t just the coldest place in Louisiana, it’s also the biggest city in Ark-La-Tex. Not sure what that is? Ark-La-Tex refers to the area where Texas, Arkansas, and Louisiana meet. The city is home to several colleges and universities, as well as many major corporate headquarters and offices.
History
Shreveport was incorporated in 1836 by the Shreve Town Company. Its location was highly suitable for business interests, as it sits both on the Red River (important for the transportation of goods) and the historic Texas Trail. Prior to European colonization, the Caddo people lived on the land. Like most Native Americans, they were displaced by colonization. After the town’s establishment, the river became the main economic driver, allowing steamboats to transport goods, like cotton, in and out. For a brief time during the Civil War, Shreveport was actually the capital of Louisiana. After the Civil War, the Red River underwent periods of use and disuse and was, at times, unnavigable. Among other southern cities, Shreveport played host to numerous events in the civil rights movement of the later twentieth century. Today, riverboat gambling casinos are some of the biggest draws to the city.
Wildlife
The coldest place in Louisiana sits in the far northwestern corner of the state. The surrounding area is largely characterized by lowland woods and cleared agricultural areas, with some lakes and wetlands. Alligators are perhaps the most famous wildlife in the area, with many living in neighboring Cross Lake. In addition to alligators, nature walkers are likely to see a wide variety of snakes, including garter snakes and water snakes. Shreveport’s surrounding forests and wetlands are also home to venomous cottonmouths and rattlesnakes.
Things To Do in Shreveport
Shreveport has plenty of places to eat, stay, and gamble. There are also plenty of museums, including the Discovery Science Place (great for kids), the Sci-Port Discovery Center, and the Barksdale Global Power Museum. Shreveport even boasts its own zoo (the Caldwell Zoo) and aquarium (the Shreveport Aquarium). Travel just a few minutes south along the course of the Red River, and you’ll find yourself at Gator Country. Gator Country is one of the largest and most popular alligator farms in Louisiana. If you’re staying in Shreveport, it’s worth the drive. Shreveport also has a bustling downtown area with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from. There’s even a dog park or two scattered around town.
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