DOTHAN, Ala. — A rare and historic snowstorm swept across south Alabama last week, causing significant disruptions and dangerous driving conditions throughout the region. From Tuesday, January 21, to Thursday, January 23, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) troopers responded to a staggering 216 traffic crashes and received over 700 calls for assistance.
The snowstorm blanketed the Wiregrass area in several inches of snow, leaving roads treacherous and creating hazardous driving conditions. As a result, troopers from regions Troops A, B, and D responded to incidents in numerous counties across south Alabama, including Coffee, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Pike, and many more.
In the Wiregrass area alone, troopers investigated 46 crashes and assisted drivers who had slid off icy roads 105 times. The severity of the weather left roads nearly impassable in some areas, prompting an overwhelming number of calls for help.
Tragically, one of the crashes resulted in a fatality. On Tuesday afternoon, 27-year-old Maia M. Sterns of Madison, Alabama, lost control of her vehicle on Highway 231 in Dale County. The car hydroplaned and collided with another vehicle, leading to Sterns’ death at the scene. Authorities have urged drivers to exercise extreme caution when navigating icy roads, especially in areas prone to snow accumulation.
ALEA continues to monitor road conditions as the snowstorm moves out of the area. Drivers are being reminded to stay informed of weather updates and to avoid unnecessary travel in areas still impacted by the storm.
