HUNTSVILLE, Ala — Temperatures are expected to remain below freezing until Wednesday throughout the Tennessee Valley.
The National Weather Service in Huntsville expects the winter storm to lead to power outages. If you do lose power, they say you could be sitting in your cold home until Wednesday.
If you are without power in freezing temperatures, the National Weather Service says to close your blinds and curtains to keep in the heat. They also recommend closing off rooms to prevent wasting heat.
Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing.
Eat and drink. When it's cold and you have no way to heat your home, dig into those emergency snacks. Food will provide energy and help heat your body.
While you may be tempted to leave your cold home to see the snow and ice, officials say don't. You are much safer in your home.
Meteorologist Katie Magee with NWS Huntsville said, "Wherever you are tonight and tomorrow morning is where you will be until temperatures get above freezing on Wednesday. We all saw what happened in Fort Worth when they had ice accumulation. There were back ups on the highway a mile long and several fatalities. Please, please protect yourself and your loved ones. Do not travel."
The NWS says stuffing rags and towels in cracks under doors can also help to keep the heat in your home.
North Alabama winter storm: Avoid driving as much as possible