DOTHAN, Ala. – The Wiregrass region is bracing for an arctic blast that has ushered in dangerously cold temperatures, with the possibility of snow and other winter precipitation in the coming days. A cold front moved through the area earlier today, bringing brisk northwesterly winds and a sharp temperature drop.
By this afternoon, temperatures had leveled out in the 40s, but the cold air is expected to intensify overnight. Low temperatures are forecast to fall into the low to mid-20s, with wind chills plunging into the low to mid-teens.
For the remainder of the week, the region can expect to remain in the 20s, with some areas potentially experiencing temperatures in the teens through Wednesday. Highs will range from the upper 30s to lower 40s through Wednesday, before slowly returning to the 40s by Thursday and Friday. A hard freeze is likely, and residents are urged to take necessary precautions.
The most significant concern comes from a second storm system expected to impact the area between midday Tuesday and early Wednesday. As the system moves in, winter precipitation is becoming increasingly likely. Snow is expected to be the primary form of precipitation for most of the Wiregrass, with accumulations of 1 to 3 inches anticipated. Isolated areas, particularly in the northern part of the region, could see even higher amounts.
There is also a chance that areas near or south of Highway 84 could experience freezing rain or sleet, depending on the storm’s track. Forecasters are closely monitoring the situation, but at this time, the best chance for freezing rain is expected to be in the Florida Panhandle.
Winter precipitation is expected to begin between 12 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tuesday, and will likely end by sunrise on Wednesday. However, icy conditions could linger into Wednesday morning, leading to hazardous roadways and the potential for power outages caused by ice accumulation on power lines.
As the region prepares for the cold, several advisories have been issued:
- Freeze Warning: In effect from 12 a.m. Central to 8 a.m. Central for the entire Wiregrass area. Temperatures are expected to drop to between 20 and 25 degrees, with a hard freeze likely.
- Cold Weather Advisory: In effect from 9 p.m. tonight until noon tomorrow. Wind chills between 10 and 15 degrees are expected, posing a risk for hypothermia and frostbite for those exposed to the cold.
- Winter Weather Watch: In effect from noon Tuesday until 6 a.m. Wednesday. The region could see up to 2 inches of snow, with isolated higher amounts, and possible ice accumulation.
Residents are encouraged to prepare for the cold by bringing pets and plants indoors, covering pipes, and allowing faucets to drip to prevent freezing. Extra layers of clothing are recommended for those who must go outside, and it’s important to check on vulnerable individuals to ensure they are safe in these extreme conditions.
As the storm system approaches, authorities are advising the public to stay informed and be prepared for potential disruptions. The Wiregrass region has not experienced a winter weather watch in 11 years, making this a particularly rare and significant weather event.
