Montgomery, AL – With the potential for winter weather impacts across Alabama this weekend, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency(ALEA) is urging motorists statewide to prepare now and remain alert for hazardous road conditions, including black ice and slick roadways, as forecasts continue to evolve.
While exact impacts may shift before the weekend, freezing temperatures combined with rain or moisture could create dangerous driving conditions for several days beginning Friday, Jan. 23, in northern portions of the state before expanding into other areas.
“Black ice is one of the most dangerous hazards drivers face because it’s often invisible,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “Roads may look wet but can be slick in an instant, especially overnight and during early morning hours. Preparing now and adjusting travel plans, in addition to practicing safe driving behaviors, can prevent serious crashes.”
ALEA is encouraging motorists to take time now to prepare their vehicles and emergency supplies before conditions deteriorate. Recommended steps include keeping gas tanks full, packing emergency supply kits with blankets, flashlights, first-aid supplies, and basic necessities, carrying a fully charged cell phone with a vehicle charger, checking antifreeze levels, tires, and overall vehicle condition, and using windshield washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures.
Officials stress that hazardous conditions are not limited to snow-covered roads. “In Central and South Alabama, rain combined with freezing temperatures can create slick roadways just as dangerous as ice or snow,” said Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety (DPS), Colonel Jonathan Archer. “Bridges, overpasses, shaded areas and elevated roadways can freeze quickly, turning a routine drive into a serious risk.”
ALEA also reminds motorists to avoid travel when hazardous conditions develop if possible, reduce speeds and increase following distances, and use extreme caution on bridges and overpasses. Drivers are advised not to use cruise control or Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and traffic jam assist, during rain, freezing temperatures, or icy conditions. Turning on headlights during rain or reduced visibility and remaining alert for emergency vehicles and first responders is also encouraged.
The agency will closely monitor roadway conditions and coordinate with partner agencies, including the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA), and the **Alabama National Guard, as conditions develop across the state.
Motorists are encouraged to check current road conditions at ALGO Traffic and follow ALEA on social media (@ALEAProtects) for the latest updates. “When conditions change quickly, getting information from trusted sources matters,” Taylor added. “Resources such as ALGO Traffic and our Agency’s social media channels help ensure citizens receive real-time updates from those responding in the field.”
ALEA will continue working with media partners to share updates and safety information as forecasts are refined.
