DOTHAN, Ala. – Sunday is shaping up to be a challenging day for South Alabama, with forecasts indicating severe weather conditions. Residents face a two-in-five chance of experiencing severe storms, including the possibility of tornadoes and wind gusts reaching up to 45 mph. Meteorological alerts include an Extreme Cold Watch and a Freeze Watch, signaling the adverse weather.
Rain and thunderstorms are expected to begin impacting the area Sunday afternoon, potentially lingering into the evening before a significant drop in temperatures that will bring in frigid air. While South Alabama may dodge icy weather, other regions are not so fortunate; a mix of winter weather has prompted states of emergency across several states, including South Carolina, Virginia, Tennessee, Georgia, North Carolina, Arkansas, and more.
FEMA is actively addressing the situation with multiple distribution centers set up across the South and East, stocked with over 7 million meals, more than 3 million liters of water, 650,000 blankets, and 180 generators, as reported by CBS News. This assistance aims to help those affected by the severe winter conditions.
WTVY Chief Meteorologist David Paul has declared a First Alert Weather Day for Sunday in anticipation of damaging thunderstorms, which may also spawn isolated tornadoes. Following the storms, the region is expected to experience a significant drop in temperature, plunging into the 20s by Monday morning, with the potential for the mercury to flirt with the teens by Monday night. This cold snap is predicted to continue with below-freezing temperatures expected each night for at least a week.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepare for the incoming weather changes. The WTVY News4 app is available for download, providing real-time alerts and updates on storm developments, free from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.