Alabama isn’t known for heavy snowfall, but it does get snow occasionally.
On average, Alabama receives about 0.51 inches of snow annually. The northern parts experience more frequent snow than southern areas like Montgomery and Mobile.
The coldest month is January, with temperatures ranging from lows of 38.5 degrees Fahrenheit to highs of 54.7 degrees Fahrenheit.
Snowfall in Alabama is rare, but it can happen. The northern regions of the state see a sprinkling of snow a few times a year, while significant accumulation is uncommon.
Cities like Huntsville and Birmingham are more likely to experience snow compared to southern cities.
While snow isn’t a regular occurrence, weather advisories are issued when necessary.
North, central, and southwest Alabama have criteria for winter weather advisories, which include snow, sleet, or freezing rain.
When snow does fall, it often brings a unique charm to the otherwise mild winters of Alabama.
Historical Weather Patterns in Alabama
Alabama experiences a varied climate, with winters that can occasionally produce significant snowfall, especially in the northern regions.
Average Snowfall Across the State
Snowfall in Alabama is relatively rare, especially in the southern parts.
North Alabama sees more snow, with cities like Huntsville receiving an average of 6 cm (2.3 in) per year. Birmingham gets about 4 cm (1.6 in), and Mobile sees just 0.5 cm (0.2 in).
The state generally enjoys a sunny climate, but winters can surprise residents with occasional snowfalls, making these events noteworthy.
Record-Breaking Snow Events
Alabama’s weather history includes some significant snowstorms.
The 1993 Storm of the Century, which hit on March 13, 1993, paralyzed parts of the state with heavy snowfall.
Another notable event was the December 31, 1963 snowstorm, which saw Madison County record 15.7 inches of snow.
These record-breaking events highlight the state’s potential for severe winter weather, despite its usually mild climate. They also underline the importance of being prepared for unexpected snowstorms, as they can have significant impacts on daily life in Alabama.
Regional Snowfall Differences and Influences
Snowfall in Alabama is influenced by geographic location and seasonal weather patterns.
Impact of Geography and Bodies of Water
In North Alabama, cities like Huntsville and Birmingham see more snow. The Appalachian Mountains influence weather patterns, leading to colder temperatures and greater snowfall.
Central Alabama, including Montgomery, receives much less snow.
The Gulf of Mexico significantly affects the southern parts.
Cities like Mobile, closer to the Gulf, benefit from warmer temperatures, making snow rare.
Coastal areas have mild winters compared to Huntsville or Birmingham, which are farther inland.
Bodies of water like the Alabama and Mobile Rivers also play roles in regional climate.
These water bodies help moderate the temperature, making it less likely for the weather to drop low enough to produce snow in areas like Mobile.
Seasonal Weather Variations
Winter weather conditions vary greatly. In the northern parts, snow is more common due to lower temperatures caused by the chill from nearby mountain ranges.
This region has a humid subtropical climate but experiences colder winters compared to the rest of the state.
During winter, temperatures in central and southern Alabama remain warmer. This warmth prevents significant snowfall.
While places like Montgomery occasionally get a dusting, the heart of Dixie remains mostly snow-free.
Snowfall events are sporadic and influenced by cold fronts moving down from the north. These fronts can sometimes bring single-digit temperatures, especially in northern regions, leading to rare but notable snow events.
In early 2021, these conditions caused snowfall in parts of the state.