coffee, cold, winter — This weekend, stay safe and cozy indoors, and be prepared for any potential impacts that you or your family could face. (Nathan Watson / Bham Now)

This weekend, a potentially dangerous winter storm will hit the southeast, and Birmingham has a high probability of facing the treacherous, icy weather, experts say. It’s important to be prepared, especially in the event that ice on roads prevent travel.

The National Weather Service (NSW) released a map today showing the potential for impact from the upcoming winter storm that will take place. Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Anniston and the surrounding areas have about a 60-70% chance of being affected by ice and snow starting Friday night and lasting through the weekend.

“We’re not looking at shoveling anything but rather a potential build up of ice for parts of Central Alabama. This is the worst kind of wintry precipitation when it comes to travel and power lines. And, with the threat of frigid air pouring in behind the system, that’s a nasty one-two punch should you end up without power.”
NWS Birmingham

Here is what the NWS recommends to do to prepare for the storm not just this weekend, but whenever unpredictable, frigid temps take over.

Steps to prepare for winter storm impacts

There are 10 important steps to take when preparing for winter storms, according to NWS Birmingham.

Keep these in mind ahead of the weekend in the event that the storm affects Birmingham’s travel and power:

Stay stocked on food, water and medications: NWS suggests having enough for at least three days, and the food should be non-perishable in the event that the power goes out. Also good to have are flashlights, battery/power banks and extra blankets.
If you have to travel: Make sure you have the resources mentioned in step 1 with you. Before hitting the road, you should have a full tank of gas — or a full charge on your battery, if you drive an EV. Inform a friend or family member of your plans, route and destination.
Trim any hazardous trees: When the cold is already enough of a problem, the last thing you want to happen is for a tree to fall onto your home or vehicle. Trim any dead or weakened trees and tree limbs that could cause problems.
Help out: Check with your friends and family who may have trouble preparing for the storm or making it through by themselves. It might be time to offer up your couch to those in your life you are worried about.
Practice fire safety: If you are using alternative home heating sources (wood stoves, propane heaters and space heaters), keep items at least three feet away from them. Do not use your oven or stove to heat your home. Make sure you have a fire extinguisher and/or fire blanket at the ready.
Keep generators away: If you use a generator, keep them at least 20 feet away from your home to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Follow the safety instructions for your device.
Prepare your pets: Make sure your pets have a safe, warm location to shelter with easy access to food and water.
Drip your faucets: Insulate, drain or allow water to drip at a trickle for pipes located in exposed or unheated locations.
Charge your phone: In the event of any power outages, keep your devices charged. If you have power banks, now is a great time to charge them up.
Avoid injury: When travel is already difficult, it’s important to stay safe. Stay clear of icy surfaces, but if you can’t avoid them, take slow, short steps, and wear shoes with rubber treads.

Most importantly, stay up-to-date with the weather by tuning in to your local TV station or following the Birmingham National Weather Service on social media.

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