Alabama Snow FAQ
Let’s see if we can answer all of the questions…
*Is there a good chance of snow tonight? Yes, mainly if you are north of I-20. South of I-20 we might see a few snow flakes, but probably not many.
*When will the snow fall? Best chance is from about 9:00 tonight through 9:00 tomorrow morning, but snow flakes and sleet are mixed with the rain now over Northwest Alabama.
*Will the snow accumulate? If you live in Northwest Alabama there is a good chance of snow accumulation on cars and grassy areas. Counties like Marion, Winston, Franklin, Colbert, and Lauderdale will see 1-3 inches, maybe a little heavier in spots. A light dusting is possible down to Birmingham, but nothing beyond that. The warm ground will limit the amount of snow than can accumulate; soil temperatures are in the 50s.
*Will there be travel problems? Probably not, even in Northwest Alabama where the heavier snow should set up. The roads will be just wet. But, again, for Marion, Winston, Franklin, Colbert, and Lauderdale counties it will be a little slushy. We do not expect any travel issues for Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Anniston, and Gadsden at this time. But, I am convinced that we have more traffic accidents here with one inch of rain compared to one inch of snow. The interstates were a big mess yesterday and last night with rain, so take it easy out there.
*Delays? Walker County schools have decided to delay the start of their school day tomorrow until 10:00 a.m…. but with the lack of travel issues, I don’t expect any closing or delays in Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Anniston, and Gadsden. Some of the school systems over Marion, Winston, Franklin, Colbert, and Lauderdale counties might open late, where the best chance of accumulation will be on grassy areas.
*What is causing this? A cold core upper low, and we need to mention that they almost always bring surprises. So far, it is behaving, but watch for possible changes tonight and early tomorrow. They are very difficult to forecast.
*Does a snow event in late November mean a cold winter? No. There is no correlation between an early snow and the rest of the cold weather season in Alabama.
See the map below for a summary…
Category: Alabama's Weather
About the Author (Author Profile)
James Spann is one of the most recognized and trusted television meteorologists in the industry. He holds the AMS CCM designation and television seals from the AMS and NWA. He is a past winner of the Broadcast Meteorologist of the Year from both professional organizations.Subscribe
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