An extreme cold warning was released by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 11:24 p.m. valid for Saturday between midnight and noon for Fayette, Winston, Walker, Blount, Etowah, Pickens, Tuscaloosa, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Sumter, Greene, Hale, Perry, Bibb, Chilton, Marengo, Dallas, Autauga and Lowndes counties.
The weather service adds, “Dangerously cold wind chills ranging from just below zero to single digits above zero are expected.”
“Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures. An extended period of subfreezing temperatures could cause pipes to burst,” says the weather service. “Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside. Keep pets indoors as much as possible. Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors. Ensure portable heaters are used correctly. Do not use generators or grills inside. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of pipes they should be wrapped, drained, or allowed to drip slowly.”
Understanding cold weather alerts
Extreme cold warning: Take Action! An extreme cold warning is issued when dangerously cold air temperatures or wind chill values are expected or occurring. If you are in an area with an extreme cold warning, avoid going outside. If you have to go outside, dress in layers, cover exposed skin, and make sure at least one other person knows your whereabouts. Update them when you arrive safely at your destination…