Winter Storm Update: Snow and Ice Threaten Alabama This Wednesday
Birmingham, Alabama, is bracing for a significant winter storm that could generate snow and ice across various regions this Wednesday. A Winter Storm Watch is currently active for much of North Alabama and southern Middle Tennessee. This upcoming weather event is anticipated from the evening of Friday through Sunday afternoon, causing potential disruptions.
Areas Affected by the Winter Storm Watch
- Counties in North Alabama:
- Lauderdale
- Colbert
- Franklin
- Lawrence
- Limestone
- Madison
- Morgan
- Marshall
- Jackson
- DeKalb
- Cullman
- Marion
- Lamar
- Fayette
- Winston
- Walker
- Blount
- Etowah
- Cherokee
- Counties in Southern Middle Tennessee:
- Moore
- Lincoln
- Franklin
Cities to Watch
- Huntsville
- Florence
- Muscle Shoals
- Decatur
- Athens
- Scottsboro
- Fort Payne
- Cullman
- Gadsden
- Jasper
- Hamilton
- Fayette
- Guntersville
- Arab
- Albertville
Forecast Highlights
Weather models indicate that freezing rain may begin in Northwest Alabama on Saturday morning, with temperatures between 27°F to 32°F. Ice accumulation is likely during this time but could improve by the afternoon as temperatures rise to the mid-30s.
The European global model predicts that much of North Alabama might remain above freezing from Saturday afternoon until early Sunday morning. Temperatures could reach 55°F to 60°F by Sunday morning along I-20. Meanwhile, lower western areas of the Tennessee Valley may experience upper 30s to low 40s.
However, a cold air damming pattern could bring colder air into Northeast Alabama. This might lead to additional freezing rain and ice issues in counties such as Jackson, DeKalb, Cherokee, and Cleburne.
Weather Transition and Potential Risks
For most of Alabama, rain is expected from Saturday night into early Sunday morning. As colder air arrives on Sunday, temperatures will drop significantly, especially across the northern half of the state. A transition to snow or freezing rain is possible as the storm system moves northeast.
Temperatures could plunge to between 10°F and 18°F by Monday morning, raising concerns over black ice formation on roads. Conditions will remain below freezing throughout Monday, despite some sunshine.
Key Takeaways
- Potential icing in Northwest Alabama Saturday morning.
- Freezing rain risks in Northeast Alabama Saturday night.
- Black ice formation expected Sunday night into Monday morning.
As forecasts continue to evolve, it is essential for residents to stay informed about updates and prepare for possible severe winter conditions in the upcoming days. El-Balad will provide continued coverage and detailed forecasts as the situation develops.
