CULLMAN – Early this morning the National Weather Service in Huntsville issued a Winter Storm Warning for the entire Tennessee Valley including Cullman County. This replaces the Winter Storm Watch that had previously been issued. This warning runs from 6PM tonight through 6AM Tuesday.

Forecast data as been consistent enough the last few days with the idea of a significant ice threat for much of North West and Central Alabama. That said, the key player that is giving us the most grief in forecasting is exactly how far south the freeze line drop. Further to the north and we wind up with a cold rain, further to the south and we get snow. Right now everything is pointing to that freeze line setting up just in the right spot for ice accumulations.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

  • Ice Accumulations up to .30 inches
  • Snow and Sleet accumulation of 1 to 3 inches
  • Power outages. Ice will accumulate on trees and powerlines causing them to snap and fall.
  • Hazardous Travel. Ice will accumulate on roads and bridges making travel extremely dangerous. Expect power outages that occur to last for multiple days due to prolonged below freezing temperatures. Most places will not get above freezing until Wednesday afternoon.

IF YOU HAVE TO TRAVEL, BE SURE OF THE FOLLOWING:

  • Make sure your car is full of gas,
  • Your cell phones are charged.
  • You have food, water and blankets in your vehicle
  • Someone knows your travel plans and route.

This information is brought to you by our partners at the Cullman County Weather Team