Huntsville, Alabama — A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for north Alabama as a developing system could bring snow, sleet, and ice beginning Friday night and lasting through Sunday afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Huntsville, mixed wintry precipitation is possible across the region, including the Huntsville metro area. Forecast projections indicate at least 2 to 3 inches of combined snow and sleet could accumulate, with the potential for more than one-quarter inch of ice in some locations. Locally higher amounts remain possible as confidence increases.
Forecasters warn that even small amounts of ice could significantly impact travel and infrastructure. Snow and ice accumulation on untreated roads may lead to hazardous driving conditions, particularly overnight and during early morning hours.
Major roadways including Interstate 565, U.S. Highway 72, and Memorial Parkway could become slick if freezing precipitation develops. Bridges and overpasses are expected to ice first, increasing the risk of crashes. Power outages are also possible if ice accumulates on trees and power lines.
The Winter Storm Watch is in effect from 6 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Sunday and includes much of northern Alabama as well as portions of southern middle Tennessee. A watch means conditions are favorable for significant winter weather, but exact timing and precipitation types are still being refined.
The National Weather Service urges residents to begin preparing now by monitoring forecast updates, limiting unnecessary travel during the storm window, and ensuring vehicles and emergency supplies are ready. Those with weekend travel plans should consider alternate arrangements.
For commuters, students, and weekend workers, the highest-risk period appears to be late Friday night through Sunday morning, when wintry precipitation and cold surface temperatures could combine to produce dangerous road conditions across the Huntsville area.
