**Freeze Warning Issued Across Alabama Amid Extreme Cold, Black Ice Threat**
Key Takeaways:
- Temperatures plunged to the low teens across parts of Alabama on Sunday night.
- Black ice and frozen roadways triggered First Alert Weather Day warnings through Monday morning.
- Frigid weather will persist throughout the week, with overnight lows in the 20s through Friday.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — The keyword “freeze warning” is trending as Alabama officials and meteorologists continue warning residents about hazardous winter weather conditions. Early Monday morning brought bone-chilling temperatures—dropping to as low as 13 degrees Fahrenheit in Hamilton—triggering a First Alert Weather Day and prompting warnings about widespread black ice and potential travel hazards.
Widespread Black Ice Raises Safety Concerns
As of Monday morning, January 15, 2024, several counties in Alabama, including Fayette, Marion, and Lamar, are experiencing severely impacted road conditions due to freezing temperatures overnight. Reports from local weather watchers confirmed that residual moisture from earlier flurries and mist had frozen solid, creating near-invisible patches of black ice. Many of the region’s county roads have been deemed “impassable”, though state highways and interstates remain open with caution advised.
The National Weather Service issued formal freeze warnings late Sunday night, urging people to stay off the roads unless necessary. Elevated surfaces such as bridges, overpasses, and even sidewalks are especially treacherous. Motorists have been advised to give additional time for travel and to prepare vehicles for frozen windshields and doors. Local newscasts, including WBRC’s “Good Day Alabama,” began early coverage at 4 a.m. to track ongoing conditions and any potential emergency responses.
Lingering Arctic Air Drives Dangerous Weather Week
This arctic blast is part of a broader pattern of cold air sweeping across the southern United States. While Alabama managed to avoid the worst of a destructive ice storm affecting other parts of the South, it has not escaped the residual cold. Forecasters say the region will remain below freezing through at least Tuesday morning, with daytime temperatures struggling to climb above the 30s until midweek.
According to WBRC meteorologists, the wind on Sunday did help evaporate some moisture, but shaded areas and low-lying spots are still dangerous. As more freezing temperatures are anticipated in the coming days, local authorities are urging residents to check plumbing, protect agricultural assets, and monitor heating systems. Monday morning also brought light mist and residual fog in northern parts of the state, adding to visibility concerns for commuters.
Looking Ahead: More Freezing Nights, Cautious Optimism
After Tuesday, temperatures are expected to briefly rise above freezing during the day on Tuesday and Wednesday. However, nighttime lows will again fall into the 20s, maintaining a persistent risk for reelevated patches of black ice through at least Friday. A second round of cold weather is forecast to arrive later in the week, keeping highs in the 30s and affecting schools, local businesses, and agricultural operations.
Officials are continuing to monitor county road conditions and will provide updates through local media and emergency notification systems. Residents are encouraged to download the latest WBRC First Alert Weather app for real-time alerts and to check with local departments of transportation before commuting. Precautions also extend to pedestrians, with walkways, steps, and driveways potentially dangerous due to frozen runoff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is freeze warning trending?
A: A deep freeze has gripped Alabama and surrounding areas, causing treacherous road conditions and widespread black ice warnings that have prompted First Alert Weather Days and formal freeze warnings.
Q: What happens next?
A: Frigid conditions are expected to continue through the end of the week, with black ice risks returning nightly. A brief warming spell is anticipated midweek before another cold front arrives.
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