BATON ROUGE, La. (Louisiana First) — A rare winter storm swept through the Deep South on Tuesday, bringing record-breaking snowfall to South Louisiana. Baton Rouge experienced its largest snowfall in over a century, with the National Weather Service officially recording 7.6 inches of snow, breaking the previous record of 6.5 inches set on February 15, 1895. Setting the Stage The storm followed an unseasonably warm weekend, with highs reaching 78 degrees on Saturday, giving the region a brief taste of spring. However, temperatures began a sharp decline as a strong cold front moved in late Saturday evening. By Sunday, lows dropped to 31 degrees, signaling the arrival of arctic air. The Arctic Blast Arrives Monday morning brought even colder conditions, with temperatures plunging to 24 degrees in Baton Rouge. The day started sunny, but clouds quickly rolled in as an upper-level disturbance from the Four Corners region approached, spurring the development of a surface low near the southeast Texas coast. This system mixed Gulf moisture with the cold, dry air, creating ideal conditions for winter precipitation. Snow Begins to Fall The first wintry mix and flurries appeared on radar late Monday night, transitioning to steady snow showers by early Tuesday morning. Snowfall continued through the morning hours before tapering off in the early afternoon as the storm system moved eastward. Midnight TuesdayEarly Tuesday MorningTuesday AfternoonTuesday Night Record-Breaking Snowfall Totals South Louisiana towns recorded extraordinary snowfall amounts for a region more accustomed to mild winters. Baton Rouge received 7.6 inches of snow, Geismar saw 8 inches, and Port Allen reported around 7 inches. In some areas, snowfall reached as much as 9 inches. Snowfall measurements varied across locations due to heavy snow bands and wind conditions. The National Weather Service averaged out reports to confirm the official total of 7.6 inches for Baton Rouge, solidifying its place in history as the highest snowfall recorded in the area since 1895. A Rare and Memorable Event This historic snowstorm brought life to a standstill across much of South Louisiana, creating a unique opportunity for residents to enjoy a winter wonderland. While the storm has passed, its impact will remain etched in the memories of those who witnessed this extraordinary event. Record Snowfall AmountsSnowfall Accumulation Latest News Over 60M kids' data may have been stolen: What you need to know Speaker Johnson says he didn't discourage panel from subpoenaing star Jan. 6 witness Trump pulls security for Pompeo, others amid Iran threats Trump’s Jan. 6 pardons divide House Republicans Boil advisories issued for some Louisiana parishes after water pressure drops