Montgomery residents who need help keeping warm during freezing temperatures ahead this week will have a warming shelter available at the Multiplex at Cramton Bowl.
The city announced Sunday evening that the shelter would be open to the public starting Monday at noon, and would be open 24 hours a day through Thursday, Jan. 23.
The Multiplex is located at 220 Hall St.
Temperatures over the three-day period are expected to drop to below 40 on Monday and Tuesday, with lows in the 20s, according to AccuWeather. Montgomery could get 1 to 3 inches of snow on Tuesday. A place to shelter from the weather is especially important in this region, where people may not be accustomed to winter weather.
More: Snow days and virtual class: Central Alabama schools announce plans ahead of icy weather
“This vital resource is open to anyone seeking warmth and safety as temperatures drop,” said a release from the city.
The city also announced that organizations that would like to help should contact the Montgomery EMA Office at ema@montgomeryal.gov or 334-625-2339.
“The city extends its heartfelt gratitude to the community partners, nonprofits, and volunteers whose contributions make this shelter possible,” the release stated. “Their dedication underscores the spirit of compassion that defines Montgomery.”
Use caution while driving in freezing weather
Snow grooves cleared by motorists are seen Jan. 10 on Mormon Road in Tuscaloosa County.
Along with keeping warm, residents need to use caution while driving. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is advising citizens to prepare for potentially hazardous conditions — including snow and ice that could make for dangerous travel conditions.
“We recognize that winter weather can pose unique challenges for our Alabama communities, particularly in those areas where snow and ice are rare,” said ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor. “Our primary goal is to keep our citizens safe. Reducing unnecessary travel during dangerous conditions is crucial to preventing accidents and ensuring first responders can perform their duties efficiently.”
During Alabama’s last major weather event, ALEA said state troopers responded to 80 traffic crashes in which weather conditions were a factor. That doesn’t include vehicles that were removed from ditches or were stranded on the side of the road due to weather conditions with no damage.
“ALEA stands ready to assist and respond to emergencies as the situation develops,” said Colonel Jonathan Archer, ALEA’s Department of Public Safety director. “Once again, we will have all available troopers ready, this includes troopers assigned to ALEA’s Marine Patrol Division to assist our Highway Patrol Division and respond to traffic crashes, road closures and assist with traffic control in heavily impacted areas. However, we strongly encourage citizens to stay off the roads if conditions become dangerous in your area.”
Driving tips to lower risks during winter storm
With the National Weather Service’s (NWS) forecasts indicating significant impacts for central and southern portions of the state, ALEA encourages the following driving precautions:
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Avoid unnecessary travel: If you don’t need to be on the road, please stay home. Conditions can deteriorate rapidly.
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Monitor weather updates: Check local weather reports before you leave.
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Prepare your vehicle: Make sure your vehicle is winter-ready. Check tires, battery, wiper blades, and fluids. Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes blankets, snacks, water, and a flashlight.
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Drive slowly and cautiously: Reduce your speed, increase the distance between your vehicle and others, and avoid sudden stops or sharp turns. Additionally, avoid using cruise control as steering sensitivity can change on icy roads, leading to loss of vehicle control.
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Stay alert: Be aware of your surroundings and watch for ice on bridges, overpasses, and shaded areas, which can freeze more quickly than other surfaces.
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Heed road closure signs: If authorities have closed roads or issued travel restrictions, comply with these warnings.
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Use headlights: In low visibility conditions, ensure your headlights are on, and keep them clean to enhance visibility for you and other drivers.
Montgomery Advertiser reporter Shannon Heupel covers things to do in the River Region. Contact him at sheupel@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Alabama freeze: Montgomery opens shelter, ALEA cautions drivers
