Huntsville and Madison County ramp up preparations for severe winter weather event
Published on January 14, 2024
The National Weather Service (NWS) has revised its forecast for North Alabama to reflect a shifting timeline for winter weather that could begin as early as 8 p.m. in the Huntsville area.
A fast-approaching system is bringing ice, snow, sleet, freezing rain and frigid temperatures that will have widespread impacts on the region. Gov. Kay Ivey has declared a State of Emergency ahead of the event, which could last several days.
The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is pretreating major roadways. The City of Huntsville Public Works Department has mobilized and is working with Huntsville Police to prepare to treat roads in higher elevations and to monitor for icy conditions. Madison County is also treating roadways in anticipation of snow and ice.
“The forecast is for 1-6 inches of snow, and we are monitoring the developing situation closely,” said Mayor Tommy Battle. “There may be several roadways that close overnight, and these areas will be barricaded, making it difficult to travel. We ask all our residents to remain weather aware and take precautions for extreme cold.”
Huntsville police remind motorists not to circumvent barricades on closed sections of roadways.
The City of Huntsville, Madison County and City of Madison are working in collaboration with Emergency Management Agency to coordinate local response to this weather event. They remind the public to follow NWS guidelines:
- Ice and snow may lead to slick roads and walkways
- Prepare for power outages
- Dress warmly, in layers, in going outdoors
- Care for pets
- Motorists should have at least one-half tank of gas and equip vehicles with blankets, water, snacks and medical supplies
Warming Shelters
Two warming shelters are open for anyone who needs temporary shelter from the elements.
- The Downtown Rescue Mission, 1400 Evangel Drive NW
- The Salvation Army, 305 Seminole Drive SW
On Monday, the Community Warming Center at the Livin Room, 2820 Governors Drive, will open at 4 p.m. For more information, contact Rev. Rosie Veal Eby at 404-579-8738 or rvealeby@nativity-hsv.org.
Pet Care
Huntsville Animal Services reminds pet owners to take extra care of their furry friends. Pets should be brought indoors. If that is not possible, extra warm bedding and a heat lamp should be provided. More information here.
Road Conditions and Alerts
Road conditions and closures will be publicized through the City Alert system, local media, and City of Huntsville social media.
Huntsville Police Department, in conjunction with the Emergency Operations Center, monitors local city roadways.
The Alabama Department of Transportation monitors state and federal highways including Highway 231 (Memorial Parkway), Highway 72 (University Drive), Highway 431 (Governor’s Drive), and I-565. For real-time road conditions, the Alabama Department of Transportation encourages individuals to visit algotraffic.com.
For more information about weather information and resources, visit HuntsvilleAL.gov.
Stay safe and stay warm!