Early forecast models suggest West Alabama could see freezing rain and snow late next week.

ABC 33/40 and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist James Spann's early outlook shows much of the state could be impacted by a winter weather event Thursday and Friday.

"Global modes are now showing signals for winter weather problems for Alabama at the end of next week, Thursday into Friday. Very cold (but shallow) air will creep into the state from the north, and the southern branch of the jet will push another wave into the region, pushing moist air from the Gulf over the shallow layer of cold air near the surface," Spann said in his latest ABC 33/40 Weather Xtreme blog.

"With this kind of scenario, the biggest problem is usually freezing rain instead of snow. Freezing rain is simply rain that falls in liquid form when surface temperatures are below 32 degrees. This in turn opens the door for ice accumulation on exposed objects. It is very important here to note that there is absolutely no skill in forecasting a winter storm 7-8 days in advance. This idea could totally go "off the table" in a few days... it is simply something to watch for now," he added.

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