According to the National Weather Service, there’s increasing confidence for a winter weather event across much of Central Alabama on Friday. Exact precipitation type and any accumulation remains uncertain. However, road and ground temperatures will already be fairly cold with prolonged cold conditions leading up to Friday.
Cold/dry conditions will persist this week, with highs in the 30s and wind chills in the teens at night. Confidence is increasing that a winter storm will bring impactful accumulations of snow (and sleet/freezing rain) to the region.
At this time, the probabilities are increasing that there will some impacts to the area during the day on Friday affecting travel. However, just one to three degrees could dramatically change this setup and will need to be monitored in the coming days.
Regardless, it will be very cold, so everyone should review their cold weather safety involving pipes, pets, home heating, and people.
For pipes, insulate, drain, or allow water to drip from the faucet at a trickle for pipes located in exposed or unheated locations.
Not all pets can handle cold weather. Bring your pets indoors whenever possible or provide a warm and safe location.
For alternative heating sources like space heaters and wood stoves, have a 3-foot zone around and follow safety instructions. Utilize carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.
For people, dress in layers and minimize exposed skin. Limit time outdoors if not prepared. Check on those without sufficient heating.
Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Birmingham AL
427 AM CST Tue Jan 7 2025
Marion-Lamar-Fayette-Winston-Walker-Blount-Etowah-Calhoun-Cherokee-Cleburne-Pickens-Tuscaloosa-Jefferson-Shelby-St. Clair-Talladega-Clay-Randolph-Sumter-Greene-Hale-Perry-Bibb-Chilton-Coosa-Tallapoosa-Chambers-Marengo-Dallas-Autauga-Lowndes-Elmore-Montgomery-Macon-Bullock-Lee-Russell-Pike-Barbour
This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for the counties served by the National Weather Service office in Birmingham.
.DAY ONE…Outlook through Tonight.
No hazardous weather is anticipated at this time.
.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN…Wednesday through Monday.
The potential for winter weather exists Thursday night through Friday evening across the northern half of Central Alabama. Impacts will be possible ranging from slick spots to perhaps difficult travel conditions.
.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT…
Activation of storm spotters and emergency management may be needed Thursday night into Friday.
