Birmingham, Alabama – A strong surge of Arctic air is expected to move into Alabama beginning Thursday, bringing a sharp increase in frost and freezing conditions across the state while precipitation chances remain lower than normal through early next week.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Alabama is forecast to see below-normal precipitation through Monday, keeping rain chances limited. However, temperatures are expected to fall well below seasonal averages, setting the stage for widespread overnight freezes and prolonged cold mornings.
North and central Alabama, including Birmingham, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, Gadsden, and Anniston, are expected to see multiple nights with temperatures dropping to or below freezing. Sub-freezing conditions may last several hours overnight, increasing concerns for exposed pipes, pets, and sensitive vegetation. Rural areas and valleys could see even colder lows due to clear skies and light winds.
South Alabama, including Montgomery, Selma, Dothan, and Auburn, is also expected to experience an elevated frost and freeze risk. While temperatures may not drop as low as farther north, widespread frost is likely, particularly in inland locations away from the Gulf Coast. Coastal communities may remain slightly warmer, but cooler-than-normal nights will still pose cold-weather concerns.
Daytime highs statewide are expected to remain suppressed, struggling to recover even under sunny skies. Wind chills may make conditions feel colder during the morning hours, especially across open and elevated terrain.
Despite the dry pattern, isolated slick spots could develop on bridges and elevated roadways during the coldest mornings along major routes including Interstate 20, Interstate 65, Interstate 59, and Interstate 85.
Residents are urged to take cold-weather precautions, including protecting pipes, plants, and pets, and checking on vulnerable neighbors. This dry but unusually cold pattern is expected to persist into early next week, with freeze warnings and advisories likely as confidence increases.
