RADAR CHECK: Rain continues to fall over much of Alabama this afternoon… most widespread along and south of I-59. Temperatures are mostly in the mid 30s, with roads wet and slushy. We note gradient winds are fairly strong; southeast winds have gusted to 37 mph at the Birmingham Airport.
Black ice will be a problem overnight as temperatures fall below freezing across the area.
After the snowy start to the event, we are seeing the transition to wintry mix and then a cold rain event due to warm air advection from the south.
SNOW! Much of North and Central Alabama enjoyed during the pre-dawn hours, and snow continues in many areas at daybreak. But, as warmer air aloft moves over the state, the snow will change to rain over the next six hours for most places with temperatures rising into the mid 30s.
Areas of Central Alabama has experienced a burst of beautiful snowfall this morning, but there is a changeover to rain occurring as expected from the south.
With snow and ice on the way to Alabama, here are the latest details on what to expect overnight and tomorrow morning.
MESSY WINTER WEATHER AHEAD: Clouds will increase across Alabama tonight ahead of an approaching storm system. Temperatures drop into the 26-32 degree range tomorrow morning over the northern half of the state.
A winter storm warning is in effect for all of North Alabama and extends as far south as Fayette, Birmingham, and Anniston. A winter weather advisory has been issued for places as far south as Tuscaloosa, Clanton, Wetumpka, and Opelika.
The drought continues, but an approaching winter storm should provide some relief this week
If weather forecasts hold true, mid-January could bring prolonged, sub-freezing temperatures to Alabama.
COLD START: Many communities across North Alabama are down in the upper teens early this morning with a clear sky… we have 20s all the way down to the Gulf Coast. The weather stays dry today with a high in the low to mid 40s for most communities.
COLD, DRY THROUGH TOMORROW: With a sunny sky this afternoon temperatures range from the low 30s over the Tennessee Valley to the low to mid 40s near the Gulf Coast.
Cold Weather Advisory issued for a large part of central AL tonight.
A Winter Storm Watch Is in effect for much of North/Central Alabama including for places as far south as Millport, Birmingham, Sylacauga, and Roanoke. This will become a Winter Storm Warning, so now is the time to prepared for a high impact winter weather event in these areas.
Our long time friend, mentor, and charter Weather Factory member, J.B. Elliott, passed away on May 11, 2015. Click HERE to read James' tribute.
