winter weather

Alabama is gearing up for winter weather. Forecasters say moisture coming from the Gulf of Mexico and cold temperatures from the west is creating freezing rain, snow, and ice. The cold conditions could persist from the Tennessee Valley to the central part of the state. The concern is that temperatures will warm and then freeze again overnight.

The Alabama National Guard has been activated for the anticipated wintry weather, which is expected to bring ice and snow to much of the Yellowhammer State. The Guard will be operating Mobility Support Teams across north and central part of the state. That's in addition to assisting the Alabama Emergency Management Agency.

A federal utility corporation that is the largest public power supplier in the country is working to keep the heat on in Alabama this winter through equipment upgrades and more. The Tennessee Valley Authority provides electricity to 153 local power companies in seven states, including the Yellowhammer State.

As icy temperatures and arctic air continue to hit Alabama, warming stations are keeping their doors open to help shelter residence from the cold. Stations are open in Mobile, Birmingham and Huntsville. That's also the case for Tuscaloosa, where the county's Emergency Management Agency is asking for donations to help those in need.

Snowfall is looking more likely for Alabama this week. The National Weather Service said conditions continue to be favorable for the probability of winter precipitation affecting the northern half of the state. This is the prediction for Thursday into Friday.

As temperatures are dropping across Alabama this week, Huntsville has been preparing for extreme cold and potential winter weather. Warming centers will be available across the city with free rides being provided. The Public Works Department, Huntsville Police and the Emergency Operations Center will monitor icy road conditions.

As temperatures are expected to fall below freezing in Alabama, the City of Birmingham and Jimmie Hale Mission will open its nightly warming station Monday through Thursday. Those needing warm shelter can come to the mission on 3420 2nd Ave North. Food will be provided.

Forecasters in Alabama say a storm system could bring a wintry precipitation as a multiple day stretch of arctic air blankets the Yellowhammer State. Parts of northern Alabama have a shot at seeing a few snowflakes on Monday, according to the National Weather Service, with more flurry chances across the state later in the week.

Alabamians are being offered support and resources for mental health as winter moves in and days grow shorter, and the temperatures drop. Seasonal affective disorder symptoms start in the late fall or early winter and go away during the spring and summer.

Chillier weather is moving into Alabama. With the temperatures dropping, some residents are turning to space heaters to keep warm. The devices can provide extra warmth in a drafty room or chilly home office, but they can also pose a safety risk no matter where they are used. Experts are now reminding of safety when using space heaters this winter.