Christmas in Alabama is a time for family and throwing footballs in the backyard. Some years, Christmas lunch could be served out on the patio, but not this year. We are approaching a holiday weekend with a forecast for frigid temperatures beginning before dawn on Friday, December 23. Alabama Power Company is advising people to be prepared for the freezing weather.
ABC 33/40 TV meteorologist James Spann warned that temperatures will drop into the 5-12 degree range Friday morning across North/Central Alabama, with a wind chill index as low as -15F. The wind chill index will stay below zero most of the day Friday.
For many places in North Alabama, it will be Monday, December 26, before temperatures climb over 32 degrees for many communities across North Alabama. Be ready for over 72 consecutive hours of sub-freezing weather.
Alabama Power said in a release that the company has made smart investments in our power grid today so they can continue to provide customers with the service they expect – both now and in the decades to come. That includes investments in a diverse energy mix to maintain high levels of reliability for customers during extreme temperatures.
Alabama Power says that its team is continuing to monitor changing weather conditions and is working to be prepared for extreme weather.
Alabama Power said that the severe cold has the potential to increase electricity bills. The Alabama Power Company offers a variety of resources and tips to make homes energy-efficient during times of increased usage while also maintaining safety and comfort.
By making a few easy adjustments and changing some habits, customers can keep costs down while keeping their homes warm. “We encourage customers to visit Cold Weather Tips | Alabama Power to find valuable ways to save money on their electricity bill,” the press release stated. “Small but smart changes can add up to big savings.”
Spann warned that for Alabama, this will be the coldest airmass since 2018 and the most prolonged Arctic outbreak since at least 2014. It is the coldest December airmass since 1989.
To connect with the author of this story, or to comment, email brandonmreporter@gmail.com.
