ALABAMA WINTER STORM PREDICTION FOR 2025: WHAT TO EXPECT
Alabama is bracing for its first significant winter storm of 2025, with significant cold weather and the potential for wintry precipitation looming over the Deep South. Meteorologists are predicting mixed precipitation, including snow, freezing rain, and sleet, raising concerns for travel conditions across the state.
The current cold front has already plunged temperatures across the northern half of Alabama to daytime highs remaining below 40 degrees, with even colder nights predicted. Snow flurries have been reported, but the primary concern revolves around the forecasted winter storm expected to impact the region Thursday night through Friday.
According to weather forecasters, the storm is projected to arrive primarily during the early hours of Friday. A low-pressure system forming along the Gulf Coast will bring with it various forms of precipitation as temperatures hover between 27 and 32 degrees over the northern regions of the state. The potential for icy travel is being highlighted, particularly along and north of the line connecting Eutaw, Centreville, Sylacauga, and Roanoke.
"A mix of snow, freezing rain, and possibly some sleet will begin before dawn on Friday," reported James Spann from AlabamaWx. He notes, "Travel conditions may be impacted across the northernmost counties. We are expecting accumulations of snow between one to three inches for parts of the Tennessee Valley, and lighter amounts to the south, with half to one inch for Birmingham and surrounding areas. This storm could bring more freezing rain than snow along the I-20 corridor, so caution is advised during travel at this time."
The earlier part of the week has already set the stage with extremely cold air moving across Alabama, especially as temperatures are expected to remain below average through the following days. On Tuesday, temperatures were reported at around 30 degrees across northern areas, with lows potentially dipping to the teens by Thursday morning.
This shift to colder weather is nothing new for Alabama this time of year. Notably, historical references provide some perspective on winter storms affecting the region. On this date, January 6, back in 1886, the Great Blizzard hit the Midwest, resulting in numerous fatalities and devastating impacts on livestock across the prairies. More recently, on the same date in 2017, Alabama experienced various forms of wintry weather with significant ice and sleet reported near the I-20 corridor.
Forecasters caution residents to prepare, as the nature of winter storms can lead to rapidly changing conditions. Although predictions are part of meteorological processes, there remains uncertainty with temperature variations potentially altering the storm’s impact. Temperatures just above freezing could limit snow accumulation, shifting precipitation types to rain or sleet instead.
With the potential for dangerous travel conditions, officials urge drivers to remain vigilant. The National Weather Service has classified areas across northern Alabama under "elevated impact" advisories due to the possible hazardous travel. For areas closer to the I-20 corridor, where freezing rain is likely, "bridges and overpasses may become slick," cautioned forecasters.
By Friday evening, as the storm moves on, the state can expect snow flurries or light snow showers to linger on the tail end of the system. After this bout of wintry weather, temperatures are predicted to remain less than average, continuing through the first half of next week, meaning residents should be prepared for more cold weather to follow.
Residents are also encouraged to take steps to protect their homes, vehicles, and pets from the harsh winter conditions. Resources for tips on maintaining safety during the wintery conditions include information on creating emergency supply kits, protective gear for pets, and strategies for managing icy sidewalks and driveways.
Overall, as Alabama anticipates these winter storms, staying informed through local weather updates is key to maintaining safety. The AlabamaWx team will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available about this significant weather event.