Let it snow! Here’s some new info on what to expect with the weather

As locals flock to the grocery stores to stock up on eggs, milk and bread due to the coming winter weather event, we want to make sure all of you know what to expect over the next several days in regard to weather.

Here’s what we know, thanks to WAAY meteorologist Grace Anello:

100 percent chance of snow Friday

No doubt about it, snow is definitely falling on Friday in North Alabama. Anello said the Shoals will likely get between 5-7 inches of snow, while she expects up to 6 inches of snow along I-65 and 2-5 inches at Sand Mountain.

So, when is this going to happen? Here’s some info:

• Snow arrives in the Shoals around 3AM Friday and gradually builds east through the area. 
• By sunrise Friday, we will all be seeing some light now. 
• Heaviest snow fall is from late morning through late afternoon, though lighter snow showers will continue through about 9PM Friday in Sand Mountain.

How will this snow storm compare to last year’s?

As folks who were here this time last year can confirm, the winter storm we saw in January of 2024 was no joke. Roads were iced over for several days — in some places for almost two weeks — and we saw power outages and some major travel restrictions.

This won’t be the case this year, Anello said.

“This year is bringing snow, with little to no ice expected. That means salt treatments on roads will be more effective, snow plows can be used and will make a big difference when it comes to road conditions, and for those needing to drive, conditions will be slightly safer than what we had last year.”

Grace Anello, WAAY-31 Meteorologist

As for a sustained winter weather event like last year, Anello said this one will be much shorter.

“We will also see sunshine and slightly above freezing temperatures Saturday, significantly above freezing temperatures Sunday and beyond. This will allow for a great deal of snow melt.”

Grace Anello, WAAY-31 Meteorologist

Anello did stress that while the roads will likely be in better condition than during last year’s storm, road conditions will not be ideal. She said she expects road conditions to be driveable Monday, returned to mostly normal by mid-week. 

How to prepare for the upcoming weather

As we reported earlier in the winter, definitely make sure your pets and plants are taken care of during freezing temperatures. As well, Anello said some other preparations include:

• Plan for very limited/difficult driving Friday and at least part of Saturday.
• Plan to have enough food, water, medicine, toiletries, etc to last you a few days. 
• Make sure your HVAC is functioning properly and if you are using a space heater, make sure it is at least 3 feet away from anything flammable and that it is never plugged into a surge protector. 
• If you are planning on trying to drive, make sure your tires have enough tread and enough air in them, you have a recent oil change, and plenty of antifreeze.
• Wind chill temps will be sub-freezing all day Friday so gloves, scarfs, hats, proper footwear and generally very warm clothing will be key.

We will be keeping a close eye on road closings, school and business closings and local government offices, and will release those reports as we get that information.

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