The winter precipitation has been a thing of the past across the region. Today’s skies are clear However, inland areas will not see temperatures rise above freezing. Even to the south and along I-10, temperatures are expected to be in the mid-30s, and possibly around 40 along the coastline.

In the areas that saw an accumulation of winter weather in the early hours of this morning, the main concern is how much water remains on roads. Most sunny skies, decreasing humidity, and powerful winds will aid in drying out today, however in areas with an increase in moisture (especially in northern areas) it is unclear whether everything will be dry completely.

There is a possibility of black ice formation in those regions where the there is a residual amount of moisture or ice. In other words, the forecast is exactly as it should be regarding the severe freezing tonight and the very cold wind chills. Here are the details of the risks:


Impacts of black ice:

  • It is possible to see black ice this evening and into the morning of tomorrow in areas where residual moisture or ice is not cleared by the end of this afternoon. A lot of areas are likely to dry sufficiently to avoid problems, but the risk is higher in areas that experienced an accumulation of more significant size. The majority of locations will be warmer than freezing at 10 a.m. until 12 noon Wednesday.


Wind chill and cold can have an impact on:

  • Very cold temperatures of between 11 to 20 degrees The bitterly cold temperatures of 11 to 20 degreesare still forecast for areas along and north of I-10 Tonight, expect low 20s on shores and islands that are barrier-free. Unprotected pipes and exposed outdoor plumbing could burst during these conditions.
  • Northerly winds that are brisk will result in dangerously cold wind chills that range from 0 degrees -10 degrees in the range of 0 to 10 degreesacross the entire region from late tonight through early Wednesday morning.
  • The extremely frigid air masses will remain on the move through Wednesday night. The Wednesday highs will be in the 40s while lows Wednesday night will drop to the 20s, and 30s on the coast. The winds are expected to be milder Wednesday night, and wind chills shouldn’t be as frigid.
  • Another severe freeze is possible Friday night/Saturday morning when an arctic-like shot that strengthens air reaches the area. Temperatures of between the 20s and teens are likely.

The article Covington County under hard freeze warning; second one expected to be issued on Friday was first published in The Andalusia Star-News.