Pre-Dawn Update
A winter storm warning remains in effect for much of North Alabama today, with a freezing rain advisory up for the cities of Birmingham, Gadsden, Anniston, and Tuscaloosa.
Temperatures are now at, or below freezing over much of Northwest Alabama… including places like Hamilton, Cullman, Haleyville, and Florence.
Freezing rain and sleet is falling over parts of Northwest Alabama as well…
Our basic forecast remains unchanged from last night…
TIMING: The 32 degree line should be along the I-59 corridor (Tuscaloosa to Birmingham to Gadsden) around 8:00 to 9:00 a.m… and near Anniston around 10:00 a.m.
PLACEMENT: As stated here last night, the freeze line will hover close to I-20 late this morning. For the southern parts of Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, and Anniston it might be 34 with a cold rain, while the northern parts are at 30 with icy travel. And, the freeze line won’t be along a nice, straight line like we have on the map… that is just a guideline.
South of the freeze line, it will be just a cold, rainy day.
IMPACT: There could be enough ice accumulation for a few scattered power outages over Northwest Alabama, where icing is expected to be heavier. Otherwise, in the sub-freezing areas bridges and overpasses will become icy and slick, and even some black top roads could develop icy spots.
DURATION: Much of North Alabama will stay below freezing all day, so icy travel could linger into tonight and early tomorrow. Temperatures will go above freezing by mid-morning tomorrow when conditions improve.
ALABAMA POWER IS READY, ARE YOU? Our friends at Alabama Power are monitoring the forecast closely, ready to deploy people and assets to quickly address any outages that might occur. Read a special message from Ike Piggot about their commitment to their customers.
I will have a full discussion and a new Weather Xtreme video coming shortly…
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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