GregCook

Snow in North Alabama

In Joppa, the day began with temperatures around 33°F (0°C) and cloudy skies. Snow, sleet, and freezing rain fell during the morning, accumulating up to 1 centimeter. As the day progressed, the precipitation transitioned to rain and freezing rain, with temperatures peaking at 34°F (1°C) and dropping to a low of 28°F (-2°C) in the evening. The combination of wintry precipitation and cold temperatures made travel extremely difficult and dangerous.

The broader region of North Alabama faced similar challenges.

Heavy mixed precipitation resulted in additional snow and sleet accumulations of up to 4 inches, with ice accumulations around one-tenth of an inch. These conditions led to slick and hazardous roads, particularly on bridges and overpasses. Authorities strongly discouraged travel, advising residents to delay any necessary trips and to exercise extreme caution if travel was unavoidable.

The impact of the storm extended beyond Alabama.

A powerful winter system swept across the Southern United States, causing flight delays, slick roads, and school closures in multiple states. Governors in regions such as Arkansas and North Carolina declared states of emergency, mobilizing resources to assist stranded motorists and address power outages. Major airports, including those in Atlanta and Dallas-Fort Worth, experienced significant disruptions, with numerous flight cancellations and delays.

Residents in North Alabama were advised to prepare for potential power outages due to the weight of snow on tree limbs and strong winds that could down power lines. Emergency management agencies recommended having winter storm kits ready, including items like tire chains, booster cables, flashlights, shovels, blankets, extra clothing, water, and first aid supplies. The Alabama Emergency Management Agency emphasized the importance of staying informed about weather conditions and heeding official advisories to ensure safety during the storm.

North Alabama is home to a diverse array of bird species, many of which adapt remarkably well to winter weather, including the rare snowstorm. The Northern Cardinal is a standout among these winter survivors, with its vibrant red plumage providing a stark and beautiful contrast to the white, snowy landscape. Cardinals are frequent visitors to backyard feeders during snowstorms, relying on seeds and berries to sustain them when natural food sources are buried under snow. Their distinctive calls and songs add life and color to the otherwise quiet and subdued winter scene.