By Jim Stefkovich, Meteorologist, Alabama Emergency Management Agency
CLANTON – Monday, 8:00 am December 26, 2022
A fast moving upper level disturbance will travel from northwest to southeast across the northern portions of the state today. Based on current radar and model data, precipitation will reach the ground as either a light rain/snow mix or all snow.
The good news is that total precipitation amounts will be light. This will lead to trace snowfall amounts near the I-20 and I-59 areas and from a trace to around ½ inch north of Hamilton – Cullman – Fort Payne line.
The bad news is that due to the prolonged period of below freezing temperatures, any precipitation could cause immediate roadway issues. In addition, very small increases in total precipitation amounts (which are possible) could lead to higher snowfall totals, especially near the Alabama/Tennessee line.
Temperatures will drop below freezing north of I-20 after 6 pm and remain below freezing until 9 am -10 am Tuesday. Otherwise, a warming trend will occur across all of Alabama Wednesday afternoon into this weekend.
Areas of dense fog may develop during the overnight and morning hours mid to late week, especially near the coast.
Several upper level disturbances will produce widespread rainfall both Friday and Saturday. Total rainfall amounts by Sunday morning will range from 2-4 inches, with locally higher amounts. It remains unclear if severe weather will occur either day, but a low-end threat appears possible across the southern portions of the state.
Unfortunately, the active pattern continues into 2023, with another storm system forecast on Tuesday, January 3rd, and the threat of additional heavy rainfall.
