Significant Winter Weather Event Forecasted for Alabama

A significant winter weather event is anticipated across Alabama from Friday night through Sunday, January 20-22, 2026. The Alabama Emergency Management Agency has reported high confidence in the forecast, which indicates that an upper-level system will bring precipitation to the state, beginning with rain showers late Wednesday afternoon and transitioning to freezing conditions by Friday night.

Significant Winter Weather Alert for Alabama: Freezing Rain Expected

Precipitation is expected to start in northern Alabama around midnight Saturday, spreading throughout the state during the day. The forecast predicts below-freezing temperatures for areas near and north of Interstate 20, with lows dropping below freezing starting around midnight Saturday and lasting until at least Tuesday afternoon. The northern half of the state is likely to experience freezing rain, sleet, and potentially snow, particularly near the Tennessee River, where ice accumulation could exceed one inch. This level of ice is concerning as it poses risks for power outages and hazardous road conditions.

Significant Winter Weather Alert for Alabama: Freezing Rain ExpectedFirst Alert: Another cold night ahead, but trending warmer later in the week

In southern Alabama, while primarily a cold rain is forecast, temperatures are expected to dip to 32 degrees or below Saturday night into Sunday morning, which could lead to some freezing rain and hazardous driving conditions. The cold snap will be compounded by a reinforcing arctic air mass moving in from Sunday into Tuesday, with temperatures forecasted to drop into the teens in northern Alabama by Monday morning.

Significant Winter Weather Alert for Alabama: Freezing Rain ExpectedFirst Alert: Another cold night ahead, but trending warmer later in the week

While the forecast has been met with concern regarding potential power outages and dangerous road conditions, some meteorologists have noted that the situation could change as the event approaches. They emphasize the need for continued monitoring of the weather patterns, as the exact impacts remain uncertain.

First Alert: Another cold night ahead, but trending warmer later in the week

Jim Stefkovich, a meteorologist with the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, stated, "Widespread and prolonged power outages as well as extremely dangerous road conditions are a growing concern." He also highlighted the uncertainty regarding how far south below-freezing temperatures will reach, indicating that even low amounts of freezing rain could create hazardous conditions.

Significant Winter Weather Alert for Alabama: Freezing Rain Expected

As the weather event unfolds, residents are advised to prepare for the potential impacts by taking precautions such as dripping faucets to prevent freezing and protecting plants and animals from the cold. Meteorologists will continue to monitor the situation closely, providing updates as necessary.

First Alert: Another cold night ahead, but trending warmer later in the week

• “Widespread and prolonged power outages as well as extremely dangerous road conditions are a growing concern.” — Jim Stefkovich, Meteorologist, Alabama Emergency Management Agency

Significant Winter Weather Alert for Alabama: Freezing Rain Expected

• “The atmospheric roller coaster continues, so stay with First Alert Weather for the latest updates.” — WSFA Weather Team

First Alert: Another cold night ahead, but trending warmer later in the week

This winter weather event poses significant risks for Alabama, and residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared as conditions develop.

Significant Winter Weather Alert for Alabama: Freezing Rain Expected