Winter Weather Update-1/6 (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

Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for Etowah County on Thursday from 10 a.m. through midnight. This means that periods of snow will cause travel problems.

Current Forecast Temperatures

Tonight: Low-21

Thursday: High-35/Low-13/Wind Chill as low as -1

Friday: High-29/Low-12/Wind Chill as low as -1

Saturday: High-27/Low-10

Sunday: High-31/Low-15

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

Snow

No precipitation is expected tonight. Travel should be fine tomorrow morning. The National Weather Service expects snow to arrive in Etowah County around 3 p.m. on Thursday. Snow will continue into the evening hours, ending before midnight. Accumulations of 1"-2" are possible.

Roads

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

Schools

Attalla City Schools-Will close at 1pm on Thursday and open two hours later on Friday.

Etowah County Schools-Will close at 1pm on Thursday and open two hours later on Friday.

Gadsden City Schools-Will close at 1pm on Thursday and open two hours later on Friday.

Warming Centers

Warming centers will be open at 8 a.m. on Thursday morning at the following locations:

• Carnes Recreation Center in Attalla
• Carver Community Center in Gadsden
• Elliott Community Center in Gadsden
• Glencoe Senior Center
• Salvation Army in Gadsden
• Southside City Hall

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.