Alabama Prepares for Wintry Weather, Icy Roadways
ALEA Urges Motorists to Drive with Extreme Caution

With the forecast of a severe winter weather storm moving into the area on Friday, many area schools have announced they will close.
Governor Robert Bentley on Thursday issued a State of Emergency effective at 7 a.m. Friday for all Alabama counties in preparation for the potential severe winter weather.
After initially stating schools would close at midday Friday, the Demopolis City School System officials announced early Friday that schools would instead be closed for the entire day.
“The Temperature dropped quicker than anticipated over night. We do not want to risk the safety of or students, parents, and employees later this morning,” said Demopolis Superintendent Kyle Kallhoff. “Extended month contract employees will need to report to work this morning to make sure campuses are secured and clear.”
Marengo Academy announced it would also be closed Friday along with Shelton State Community College and the University of West Alabama.
Linden Schools are scheduled to close at noon while Marengo County Schools was waiting to make a decision Friday morning. West Alabama Christian School was also closing early, at 11:30 a.m.
As the state of Alabama prepares for Friday and Saturday’s forecasted mix of wintry precipitation, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) encourages motorists who must drive to use extreme caution and to expect roadways to be icy.
ALEA offers the following traffic safety tips for those who must travel under such hazardous conditions:
· Monitor local news for information on weather conditions and travel advisories, and check road conditions (available at https://algotraffic.com/).
· Report traffic crashes or other emergencies by calling 911 or using a cell phone to dial *HP (*47) to reach the nearest Highway Patrol Post.
· Remain alert for emergency vehicles and remember to obey Alabama’s “move over” law.
· Keep vehicles in good operating condition. Check antifreeze levels and use windshield washer solution suitable for freezing weather conditions. Keep gas tanks at least half full.
· Remember weather and roadway conditions may quickly change. Adapt speeds to existing roadway conditions, and be alert to changing weather and the possibility of icy, slippery roads.
· Turn on headlights and windshield wipers, and maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and other vehicles during inclement weather.
· Pay particular attention to bridges and overpasses, which have a tendency to develop hazardous “black ice.”
· Keep blankets, first aid kit, charged cell phone and other emergency supplies in your vehicle.