Birmingham, Alabama, February 1, 2026
Birmingham, Alabama, and surrounding areas are experiencing dangerously low temperatures and wind chills, prompting an Extreme Cold Warning and Wind Chill Advisory. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for more severe cold conditions expected later this week. Wind chills are anticipated to reach between 0°F to -30°F in the coming days, which could pose significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations.
Birmingham, Alabama
Birmingham, Alabama, and much of central Alabama experienced dangerously low temperatures and wind chills earlier today, with an Extreme Cold Warning and a Wind Chill Advisory in effect until noon Sunday. While these specific advisories have now expired, residents are urged to remain vigilant regarding lingering cold conditions and to prepare for a potentially more severe cold snap later this week. Wind chills around 0°F to -3°F impacted the region, particularly along I-65 and I-20, posing significant health and safety risks.
The Extreme Cold Warning for central Alabama, which was active through noon Sunday, warned of severe cold expected to persist over the weekend. Concurrently, a Wind Chill Advisory was also in effect for the entire area of central Alabama through noon Sunday, highlighting the combined threat of cold air and wind. These advisories indicated that the wind chill factor would make the air feel considerably colder than the actual temperature.
Earlier today, wind chills near 0°F were specifically anticipated along I-65 in Birmingham, AL. Yesterday, wind chills of -3°F were recorded in Birmingham, AL, with ongoing risks identified for major interstates, including I-65 and I-20. Looking ahead, a broader region is preparing for even more extreme conditions, with potential wind chills ranging from -15°F to -30°F from Sunday night through Wednesday.
Understanding Wind Chill and Its Dangers
Wind chill is a measure of how cold it truly feels outside when the wind is factored in. Even if the air temperature is relatively mild, strong winds can strip away body heat much faster, leading to a rapid drop in skin temperature. This phenomenon makes outdoor exposure particularly dangerous, as it can accelerate the onset of cold-related illnesses such as hypothermia and frostbite. These conditions can occur quickly, even in temperatures that might not seem extreme at first glance, but are made hazardous by the wind.
Health Risks Associated with Extreme Cold
Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, slow, shallow breathing, and loss of consciousness. Infants with hypothermia may have bright red, cold skin and very low energy.
Frostbite is another severe risk, resulting from the freezing of body tissue. It most commonly affects exposed skin such as fingers, toes, ears, and the nose. Initial signs include numbness, a prickling sensation, and cold, pale, or waxy-looking skin. In severe cases, frostbite can lead to permanent tissue damage and, in some instances, amputation.
Safety Measures Amidst Cold Alerts
Authorities and weather experts urge residents to take several critical safety measures to protect themselves and their families during this period of extreme cold:
- Limit Outdoor Exposure: Minimize time spent outdoors, especially during peak cold hours. If outdoor activity is unavoidable, dress in multiple layers of warm, loose-fitting clothing.
- Protect Exposed Skin: Wear hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated boots to cover all exposed skin. This is crucial for preventing frostbite.
- Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of fluids and eat regular meals to maintain energy levels and body heat.
- Check on Vulnerable Individuals: Elderly neighbors, young children, and those with chronic medical conditions are particularly susceptible to cold-related illnesses. Ensure they have adequate warmth and resources.
- Bring Pets Indoors: Domestic animals are also vulnerable to extreme cold and should be brought inside or provided with warm, sheltered spaces.
- Home Heating Safety: Ensure heating systems are functioning correctly and safely. Use alternative heating sources cautiously and never leave them unattended. Check carbon monoxide detectors.
- Prevent Frozen Pipes: Take steps to protect water pipes from freezing, such as insulating exposed pipes, allowing faucets to drip slowly, and opening cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
- Travel Precautions: Exercise extreme caution if driving is necessary. Roads, especially along interstates like I-65 and I-20 in Birmingham, AL, could be slick or hazardous. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including blankets, food, water, and a fully charged phone.
With these severe cold alerts having been in place for central Alabama through Sunday noon, residents are strongly advised to stay informed through local weather updates and prioritize safety to navigate the challenging conditions effectively. The period from Sunday night through Wednesday also warrants close attention due to the potential for even colder wind chills in a broader region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What weather warnings were in effect for central Alabama recently?
Central Alabama was under an Extreme Cold Warning and a Wind Chill Advisory until noon Sunday.
What were the expected wind chills in Birmingham, Alabama?
Wind chills around 0°F to -3°F impacted Birmingham, Alabama. Specifically, wind chills near 0°F were anticipated along I-65 in Birmingham, AL.
When were these specific advisories set to expire?
The Extreme Cold Warning and Wind Chill Advisory for central Alabama were in effect until noon Sunday.
What highways in Birmingham, AL, were noted for risks due to cold?
Risks were identified for major interstates in Birmingham, AL, including I-65 and I-20.
Are there any further cold weather alerts anticipated?
A broader region is preparing for even more extreme conditions, with potential wind chills ranging from -15°F to -30°F from Sunday night through Wednesday.
Key Weather Features and Alerts
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Extreme Cold Warning | In effect until noon Sunday | Central Alabama |
| Wind Chill Advisory | In effect until noon Sunday | Central Alabama |
| Immediate Wind Chills | Around 0°F to -3°F | Birmingham, AL |
| Specific Highway Risks | I-65 and I-20 | Birmingham, AL |
| Future Wind Chill Alert | -15°F to -30°F | Broader Region |
| Duration of Future Alert | Sunday night through Wednesday | Broader Region |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Birmingham Man Arrested in Major Drug Bust
Alabama Faces Major Winter Storm with Nationwide Effects
Extreme Heatwave Engulfs Eastern U.S.
Severe Heat Wave to Hit Alabama as Temperatures Approach 100 Degrees
Heat Alerts Across 20 States as Summer Sizzles On
Alabama Trust Allocates $250,000 for Winter Storm Bill Assistance
Severe Weather Outbreak to Impact Midwest and South
Historic Flooding Ravages Eastern Kentucky and Southern West Virginia
Brace For the Chill: Polar Vortex Hits the U.S.
Severe Weather Hits Eastern U.S. with Floods and Snow
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
