Huntsville, Alabama – The Tennessee Valley is entering an extended stretch of elevated winter weather risk as lingering cold air across the region keeps the potential for additional snow and ice events high through mid-February, following one of the most expansive winter storms of the season.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, below-normal temperatures are expected to persist across the Tennessee Valley through the Feb. 7–20 period. With cold air firmly entrenched, any storm system tracking through the Mid-South or Southeast could produce snow, sleet, or freezing rain, particularly during overnight and early morning hours when temperatures drop below freezing.
The renewed concern comes on the heels of Winter Storm Fern, a massive system that swept from Texas to Maine and impacted more than two dozen states. Fern brought disruptive winter weather into the Tennessee Valley, including accumulating snow and ice across parts of northern Alabama and southern Tennessee. Travel conditions deteriorated along Interstates 65, 24, and 40, while school closures and widespread delays were reported as roads became slick and visibility dropped.
As cold conditions linger, communities from Huntsville and Decatur to Florence, Chattanooga, and southern Middle Tennessee could face renewed disruptions if similarly strong systems develop. Transportation officials warn that repeated winter events increase the risk of icy bridges and overpasses, which can become hazardous quickly even with light precipitation.
Emergency management agencies across the Tennessee Valley are urging residents to prepare now by checking heating systems, insulating exposed pipes, and restocking winter emergency supplies. Drivers are encouraged to avoid non-essential travel during wintry weather and to monitor ALDOT and TDOT updates closely.
While the exact timing of future systems remains uncertain, forecasters say the overall pattern supports continued winter threats. Additional advisories and warnings may be issued as confidence increases, with cold air and the risk of snow and ice likely remaining a recurring concern across the Tennessee Valley through mid-February.
