Winter weather to possibly affect local area

Published 3:50 pm Thursday, January 20, 2022

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Covington County is bracing for possible winter weather tomorrow and into the weekend.

There is a lot of uncertainty that comes with this system for the local area.

“Weather can change rapidly, so make sure before you get on the road, check advisories and be careful. Drive slowly and be aware of what the weather has been doing before you get on the roads. Be sure that you are using safe sense and be sure that you are prepared for the cold,” Covington County EMA Director Susan Harris said.

Due to potential weather issues, Andalusia City Schools is closing in-session classes Friday but will still hold virtual learning. As of Thursday afternoon at 3:30 p.m., Covington County Schools and Opp City Schools were both scheduled to remain open for in-school instruction Friday.

The National Weather Service indicates a cold front will move well south of the area by Thursday night with conditions drying out and the air temperature turning much colder. As cold air continues to move in during the overnight hours, another round of moisture and potential could possibly overspread southern portions of the area by early Friday morning. That leaves open the possibility of freezing rain across parts of the area.

A winter weather advisory is in effect from midnight until noon Friday. Very cold low temperatures are expected over the weekend. A hard freeze with temperatures approaching 20 degrees is possible along and north of Highway 84, especially by Sunday morning.

Current forecasts indicate temperatures hovering around the freezing mark Friday and Saturday morning with a possibility of a wintry mix. Highs are expected to only be in the mid-to-upper 40s with cloudy skies Friday and Saturday. Sunday’s low could dip below freezing in the mid-to-upper 20s. It is expected to return to sunny skies Sunday with a high temperature in the low 50s.

“There are multiple ways of getting weather alerts and information. Please use those and be careful if you must get out. If you find yourself in an emergency situation, please call 911,” Harris said.

To contact the Covington County EMA call 334-428-2670.