Alabama's Cold Snap Is Here: 7 Deadly Mistakes That Could Cost You Everything!

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - Starting next week, residents across Alabama should brace for a significant drop in temperatures, with forecasts indicating the potential for below-freezing conditions. For many in the Heart of Dixie, this sudden shift to chilling weather can pose serious health risks, particularly for those unaccustomed to such cold. The Alabama Department of Public Health is urging residents to take precautions to safeguard themselves and their families against hazardous winter weather.

Freezing temperatures can lead to much more than just discomfort; they can be life-threatening. According to Jamey Durham, director of the Bureau of Prevention, Promotion, and Support at the Alabama Department of Public Health, two conditions that are particularly concerning are hypothermia and frostbite.

Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, and it is more prevalent in Alabama than many might realize. In 2024 alone, there were 11 hypothermia-related deaths reported in the state. Early warning signs to look out for include shivering, exhaustion or lethargy, confusion, memory loss, and slurred speech.

“The key is to seek warmth quickly,” Durham explains. “You want to basically get out of that cold environment into a warm environment before the shivering potentially stops and it becomes a serious problem.”

Frostbite is another serious concern, developing when skin and underlying tissues freeze due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. The condition most commonly affects exposed skin, particularly on the face, ears, hands, and feet. Signs of frostbite include white or grayish skin, skin that feels unusually firm, and numbness in the affected area. If someone exhibits these symptoms, Durham advises immediate action: remove them from the cold environment and begin warming the affected areas gently.

One of the most effective ways to protect oneself against hypothermia and frostbite is to dress appropriately for freezing conditions. Proper layering is essential. Durham recommends starting with a base layer of a long-sleeve undershirt and thermal underwear or insulated leggings. A mid-layer of long pants and a sweater should follow, topped off with an outer layer of a winter coat and scarf. Additionally, protecting extremities with thick gloves, warm socks, and a hat covering the ears is crucial. Proper layering traps warm air close to the body and provides insulation against the cold.

Despite taking preventive measures, if anyone begins to show signs of hypothermia, Durham stresses the importance of acting quickly. Move the person to a warm environment as soon as possible, remove any damp or wet clothing, and change into dry attire while applying gentle warmth. If warming up quickly proves difficult, he advises calling 911 or heading to the nearest emergency room.

“It’s better to be safe than to be sorry,” Durham emphasizes. “Don’t wait if symptoms persist; seek emergency medical attention immediately.”

Health officials also highlight the dangers of alcohol and other substances during exposure to cold weather. These can impair the body’s ability to sense how cold it is becoming, thus increasing the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.

As Alabama braces for this potentially dangerous cold snap, preparation and prompt action can save lives. Residents are encouraged to dress warmly, remain vigilant of warning signs, and not hesitate to seek help if needed. The Alabama Department of Public Health urges all residents to take winter weather warnings seriously and to prepare in advance for the impending freezing temperatures.