Alabama Weather Network’s James Spann is forecasting a possible major winter storm over the northern half of Alabama this weekend.
Snow totals could reach five inches across the Tennessee Valley, but ice accumulation and freezing rain are of greater concern. Spann said that is because temperatures are expected to be at or below freezing.
“This leads to ice accumulation on exposed surfaces and can bring potential for power outages and very difficult travel conditions,” Spann said. “Global models continue to suggest potential for some very significant ice accumulation.”
Spann said the most difficult prediction is how far south the winter storm will reach.
“Defining the southern extent of the ice threat is always the hardest part of a forecast like this, and the line between a cold, rainy day and major icing can move back and forth during the event,” Spann continued. “At the moment, it looks like some ice accumulation will be possible as far south as Livingston, Greensboro, Clanton, Lake Martin, and Opelika. Understand this is very much subject to change.”
Snow and ice are expected to begin at midnight Friday over Northwest Alabama and move east Saturday through Saturday evening. The winter storm is not expected to exit the state until Sunday night.
South Alabama is only forecast to see cold rain.
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