Huntsville, AL – Residents across North Alabama and southern Middle Tennessee are being urged to prepare for dangerous winter weather this weekend as ice and snow move into the region, creating hazardous travel conditions and the potential for power outages.
According to the National Weather Service in Huntsville, an Ice Storm Warning is in effect for Lauderdale, Colbert, and Franklin counties in northwest Alabama from Friday night through Sunday night, with ice accumulations expected between 0.25 inches and up to 1 inch in some areas. These amounts are considered significant and could lead to downed trees, slick roads, and widespread power disruptions.
A Winter Weather Advisory covers much of North Central Alabama and Northeast Alabama, including Huntsville, Cullman, Fort Payne, and Scottsboro, where ice accumulations near 0.10 inches and snowfall totals under 1 inch are expected. While totals are lower, officials warn that even small amounts of ice can create dangerous driving conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses.
Freezing rain is forecast to begin early Saturday, expanding eastward through the Tennessee Valley. Temperatures may briefly warm Saturday afternoon, allowing some ice to melt, but colder air is expected to return Sunday, changing rain back to sleet or freezing rain before precipitation ends early Monday.
Forecasters also warn of black ice, particularly overnight and during early morning hours, as melted ice refreezes on untreated roads. Travel impacts could linger into early next week as temperatures remain below freezing.
Drivers are advised to avoid unnecessary travel, prepare emergency kits, and allow extra time if travel is unavoidable. Officials stress that conditions may change rapidly as the storm system evolves.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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