Winter storm now looks likely for North Alabama this weekend

We reported earlier this week that snow “could be possible” this weekend in the Huntsville area. However, the National Weather Service is now saying snow is the least of our concerns. A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the area from Friday through Sunday.

In essence, it’s time to brace for what could be a significant weather event.

What the meteorologists are saying

The National Weather Service in Huntsville reported this morning that “moderate to heavy accumulations of snow, sleet, or ice are
expected Friday night through Saturday night.”

The NWS added that snow and sleet accumulations of at least 2 to 3 inches are expected as well as ice accumulations above one quarter of an inch. And that’s just the minimum expected.

The NWS report also says to expect power outages and tree damage due to ice accumulations.

Here’s the updated timeline, according to the NWS:

• Friday: A chance of rain and sleet before noon, then a chance of snow and sleet between noon and 3PM, then a chance of snow after 3PM.
• Friday evening: A chance of snow before 9pm, then snow and sleet likely.
• Saturday: Snow, possibly mixed with sleet. The snow could be heavy at times.
• Saturday evening: Snow showers and freezing rain before midnight, then snow showers, freezing rain, and sleet with a low around 19 degrees.
• Sunday: A 50 percent chance of snow showers, with a high of 29 degrees.
• Sunday evening: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 11 degrees.

Huntsville Utilities urges customers to report power outages through the HSVUTIL app or by calling 256-535-4448.

“Like other organizations in the city and county, we are closely monitoring the developing weather situation. As conditions warrant, we will place crews ahead of time in places that will be hard to reach if significant ice does develop.

We are also organizing our own crews and contractors to assist if widespread power outages develop. Events like this are one of the reasons we conduct a year-round tree trimming program, as limbs weighed down by ice run the risk of breaking and bringing down power lines.:

Huntsville Utilities

Warming centers in the Huntsville area

The Huntsville metro has several warming centers for those who may not have access to power or shelter:

• Madison County
  • The Livin’ Room: 2820 Governors Drive SW Huntsville, AL 35805; 256-427-5400 or rvealeby@navity-hsv.org
  • Salvation Army: 305 Seminole Drive SW Huntsville, AL 35805 256-536-9147 Open Monday through Sunday: 6PM – 7:30AM
  • Downtown Rescue Mission: 1400 Evangel Drive NW Huntsville, AL 35816 256-536-2441 Open 24/7
  • First Stop: 206 Stokes St NW, Huntsville, AL 35805 | open 8AM-4PM
  • Huntsville, AL 35805 256-533-3391 Open Monday–Thursday, 8AM–4PM, Friday, 8AM– PM
• Morgan County
  • Hands Across Decatur: 1027 5th Avenue SE, Decatur, AL; Open 8:30AM–3PM, Mon–Thurs; 10AM–3PM, Fri–Sun. Lunch served daily at 11AM. Blankets, warm coats, gloves, socks and hats available
  • Salvation Army: 100 Austinville Rd SW, Decatur, AL 35601; Opens daily at 4PM as an overnight shelter. Dinner at 5PM; must be inside by 7PM. Light breakfast at 7AM; leave at 8AM.

“We have been through weather events like this in the past. While the City does its part, let me encourage you to be a good neighbor. Check on those who live near you in case they need assistance. Responding to a small need can make a big difference.”

Mayor Tommy Battle

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