Monitoring Weekend Winter Weather Threat Potential in Alabama

The Townsquare Media Weather Center is keeping a close watch on the developing winter storm and will provide you with timely updates as conditions evolve.

There are two important factors to be aware of:

1. The potential for winter weather this weekend.
2. Bitterly cold temperatures that will follow the winter weather system.  

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At this time, a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the northern third of Alabama ahead of possible impacts this weekend, including portions of West Alabama.

READ MORE: Winter Storm Watch for Parts of West Alabama

What the New Forecast Models Mean for Alabamians

Latest forecast models indicate the projected track of the surface low has shifted northward. So, what does that exactly mean for Alabamians?

“Originally, the low was forecast to move through the northern Gulf; now most guidance shows the low moving through the southern parts of Mississippi and Alabama,” said James Spann, Alabama Weather Network and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist.

“Accordingly, the highest risk of winter weather impact has shifted to the north as well. This is the reason the I-20 corridor (Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Anniston) was not included in the winter storm watch.”

With this shift, the primary threats also move northward, but it is important to remember we’re still several days out, and forecast details could change again as the system develops.

National Weather Service in Birmingham Key Messages

• There is a medium to high chance of winter storm impacts for parts of Central Alabama, especially near and north of the Interstate 20 corridor.
• Frigid temperatures will move in behind the storm system Sunday night through Tuesday night, as low as the single digits and teens.

Reminders

It’s also important to keep in mind that this weather system will begin moving in from the west, bringing that area “Snow, sleet, and freezing rain will increase by late morning or early afternoon in the Plains, including parts of Kansas, Oklahoma and northern and western Texas to parts of Arkansas and possibly as far east as the mid-South region of western Tennessee and northern Mississippi,” said The Weather Channel.

The Townsquare Media Weather Center will continue to bring you updates as this winter weather system develops. Mary K. – Weather Forecaster