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The National Weather Service (NWS) in Mobile issued a Winter Storm Watch for Tuesday, Jan. 21. Bitter cold through Wednesday and an 70-90% chance of snow on Tuesday are now forecast for the area.

 

Also in effect through Monday evening is a Cold Weather Advisory.

Two forecast scenarios exist; both call for bitter cold.

Low temperatures tonight and tomorrow lead into snow likely on Tuesday.

Accumulation of 2-3 inches of snow is likely.

Potential impact No. 1 predicts bitter cold, with most shaded areas seeing snow.

According to the NWS, an arctic air mass will move into the area Sunday night and remain through the middle of next week. Lows will drop well into the 20s Monday through Wednesday mornings. Lows in the teens cannot be ruled out well inland. Wind chills will drop into the lower teens and potentially the single digits in some locations.

The second scenario forecasts winter storm potential with more than 3 inches of snow.

A high (70-90%) chance of accumulating wintry precipitation is expected on Tuesday. Snow is most likely north of U.S. Interstate Highway 10, while areas south of I-10 are more likely to see a wintry mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain. Most likely, snow amounts (50% chance) are between 2 and 3 inches, with a 10% chance of 3 to 5 inches (lower amounts on the coast).

Freezing rain, while less likely, is still possible.

Hazardous travel and disruptions are possible.

Important note: Temperatures will be cold leading up to the wintry precipitation, and it may not take as much accumulation for impacts to occur.

The current cold weather advisory for Sunday evening through Monday morning means wind chills below 25 degrees can be hazardous with long exposure to humans and animals.

Air temperatures below 30 degrees will also result in damage to sensitive crops. Air temperature this cold can possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.

Emergency Management Agencies (EMA) advises residents use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat and gloves.

Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure
portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills
inside.

To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes
they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly. Those
that have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover
above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing.