Winter Weather Update-1/5 (6:45 p.m.)

This is an update on the winter conditions being forecast for Etowah County through Sunday. Please take proper precautions, as this is a serious situation with several variables involved.

Current Watches, Warnings, and Advisories

HARD FREEZE WARNING has been issued for Etowah County from midnight through 10 a.m. on Wednesday. This means that hazardous freezing conditions exist. This will likely need to be extended into the coming days based on the current forecast.

Fire Weather Watch has been issued for Etowah County for Wednesday. This means that the relative humidity is forecast to be below 25%, resulting in a high fire danger. Keep this in mind if you plan on burning on Wednesday.

Current Forecast Temperatures

Tonight: Low-15

Wednesday: High-35/Low-21

Thursday: High-32/Low-15

Friday: High-28/Low-13

Saturday: High-25/Low-10

Sunday: High-34/Low-18

Temperatures will likely be lower in rural areas. They could also be lower if we receive an accumulation of snowfall.

Snow

The good news is that this is expected to be a snow-only event for Etowah County. Therefore, freezing rain and sleet are not likely. This decreases the chance of power outages. Here is the latest snowfall forecast from the National Weather Service in Birmingham:

Snow is expected to arrive in Etowah County on Thursday morning. At this point, ½” could accumulate during the morning hours. Snow is forecast to continue into Thursday afternoon, with another ½”or greater possible. Snow is forecast to end before midnight on Thursday. Total accumulation of 1”-1½” are possible. Snow flurries are possible on Friday, but will result in no additional accumulations.

Roads

Patchy ice could form on roadways causing travel problems. If you plan on traveling Thursday or Friday, check on road conditions and use extreme caution. You can view the latest school closings here. Also, stay tuned to local media for information on possible road closings.

Schools

We have not received word of any school delays or closings at this point. Stay tuned to local media for information on school delays and closings.

Shelters

No shelters have been opened at this point. Stay tuned to local media for information on shelters that may be opened.

Preparedness

We urge everyone to take proper precautions for this severe cold weather.

• Make sure that you have plenty of water and non-perishable food on hand as part of your disaster supply kit. Don’t forget a manual can opener.
• Be sure you have a way to get information (such as a battery powered radio) if the power does go out. Don’t forget extra batteries.
• Make sure you have an alternate source of heating your home, and use it properly if needed.
• If you plan on driving or being outside, wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothes.
• Boots, a hat, and gloves are good accessories to wear.
• Try keeping your gas tank at least half full.
• Pack your car with blankets, food, and a car cell phone charger in case your car stalls.
• Don't forget to check on the elderly or disable who need assistance.
• Bring pets in if possible, especially cats. If not possible, check water often and provide shelter.

We will keep our blog, Twitter, and Facebook accounts updated. In addition, stay tuned to local media for information.

Blog: http://gadsdenetowahema.blogspot.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/GECEMA

Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/yza8zbo

If you have specific questions on preparing for winter weather, please contact our office at 256-549-4575 or at ema@cityofgadsden.com . Our office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m-4:30 p.m.