FOLEY — The Deep South is preparing for its first winter storm in nearly 11 years. The system is expected to bring snow across Alabama midweek, with heavier snow totals south of Interstate 20.
As state and local officials prepare, residents rush to stores for bread, milk, and other necessities.
Michael and Virginia Filler of Baldwin County decided to stock up on groceries before the storm.
"We are getting all of our stuff, and it is a little busy there," Virginia Filler said as she left Publix in Foley.
The two are from up north but have lived in South Alabama for 15 years.
"So, these people here, it's 'panic attack," Michael Fuller said. "We just do grocery shopping, cover the spigots and that's about it, really."
The Fillers are thankful they won't have to leave the house during the storm but hope everyone stays safe.
"Beware of black ice on the bridges, you know," Michael Filler added. "You don't realize that the wind blows under the bridge and it freezes the water."
Robertsdale Mayor Charles Murphy said the good news is that most winter weather in the deep south is short-lived.
"With anything like that happening here, it's going to be of a fairly short duration," he said. "I mean, if it lasts 12 hours, that's a long period of time because of the climate and the weather change and things warm up."
The Baldwin County EMA is working with Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD) to provide necessities throughout the community.
Officials recommend residents prepare their homes by covering outdoor spigots, allowing faucets to trip, having extra blankets, flashlights and batteries on hand and bringing pets indoors.
A shelter will be open at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Foley from Sunday at 5 p.m. to Wednesday at noon.
The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) asks motorists to monitor conditions before traveling and to avoid travel until conditions improve.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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