Central Alabama – An Extreme Cold Watch has been issued for much of central Alabama as a surge of Arctic air is expected to bring dangerously low wind chills late Sunday night into Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Birmingham, wind chills could drop as low as −2 degrees in northwestern counties, with values near 5 degrees in southeastern areas. The watch covers a wide portion of the state, including Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Montgomery, Anniston, Gadsden, Auburn, Selma, and Troy, along with dozens of surrounding communities.
Forecasters warn that frostbite and hypothermia can occur quickly if exposed skin is not protected. In addition to health risks, the prolonged period of subfreezing temperatures may cause water pipes to freeze or burst, especially in homes without adequate insulation.
The coldest conditions are expected late Sunday night through early Monday morning, following a weekend winter storm system. Temperatures may remain below freezing for several hours, increasing the risk of infrastructure and utility issues.
Residents are urged to dress in layers, including hats, gloves, and face coverings, and to keep pets indoors. Officials also recommend checking on elderly neighbors, using space heaters safely, and allowing faucets to drip slowly to prevent pipe damage.
Updates will be issued as confidence increases.
