Driving conditions in Alabama: What to expect as snow, freezing rain and sleet rolls in

Treacherous travel is possible across parts of the state Monday and Tuesday as snow, freezing rain and sleet are all possible for areas in central and northern Alabama.

The key message, according to Jim Stefkovich, meteorologist, with the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, is you should be prepared for travel impacts whether you’re in a warning or advisory area.

“There will likely be widespread, significant travel impacts near and north of I-59. Road conditions could deteriorate immediately with the onset of wintry precipitation in many locations,” Stefkovich said, adding even south Alabama could see a few slick spots.

Any snow and/or ice will be slow to melt north of I-59 until Thursday afternoon as temperatures in many locations will remain below freezing until then.

On Sunday, the Alabama Department of Transporation had applied pretreatment to major roadways and is on standby to address future needs.

Motorists are advised to avoid travel if snowy or icy conditions develop and to monitor weather reports and check road conditions at algotraffic.com or by downloading the ALGO traffic app.

You can see the latest forecast for Alabama here.

Other tips include:

Reduce speed as conditions dictate, do not follow other vehicles closely, and refrain from sudden braking. Also, remember Alabama law requires motorists to slow down and move over when approaching highway maintenance crews or first responders at work.

Prepare your vehicle with a full gas tank and an emergency supply kit containing a phone charger, ice scraper, flashlight, jumper cables, blankets, non-perishable food, bottled water, and any other critical supplies.

ALDOT maintains state, U.S., and interstate highways. Check with local government agencies for conditions on city or county roads.