Gulf Shores, Ala. – (OBA) – All City of Gulf Shores offices and facilities will be closed on Tuesday, January 21, and Wednesday, January 22, due to the approaching winter storm. Emergency services, including the Gulf Shores Police Department and Gulf Shores Fire Rescue, will remain fully operational. City officials are closely monitoring the weather and will provide updates on reopening plans. Facilities are tentatively scheduled to reopen on Thursday, January 23, pending an assessment of weather and safety conditions.

Weather Forecast

We are expecting a significant winter storm across our area. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning from 6 a.m. Tuesday, January 21, to 6 a.m. Wednesday, January 22. The forecast calls for 1-3” snow widespread, although locally, 4-5” cannot be ruled out, mainly south of Interstate 10. The timing of accumulating snow begins as early as 6 a.m. Tuesday morning and continues into the evening. Forecast snow totals may fluctuate, but regardless, major impacts are likely across much of the area. Hazardous travel and disruptions are becoming increasingly likely with this event and into the days after the event. For more information on the latest forecast, visit www.weather.gov/mob.

Winter Weather Roadway Safety

With the onset of winter weather accumulation, road and bridge conditions are expected to become hazardous, and closures are likely. The Gulf Shores Police Department will monitor road and bridge conditions and close them when conditions are considered unsafe. We strongly encourage everyone to stay at home and refrain from traveling unless essential. Please be aware that road and bridge closures may occur without prior notice. 

If you absolutely must drive, please remember these safety tips from the Alabama Department of Transportation: 

• Avoid travel until conditions improve: Once winter precipitation begins, ALDOT urges motorists to avoid travel during adverse weather and roadway conditions. 
• Slow down: Reduce your speed and increase your following distance, allowing extra room to stop. Plan additional travel time to reach your destination.
• Be aware of black ice: Bridges and overpasses are particularly susceptible to black ice, which is a thin, invisible layer of ice.
• Avoid sudden braking and steering: These actions can cause your vehicle to lose control.
• Turn on your headlights: This will make your vehicle more visible to other drivers.
• Avoid using cruise control on icy roads: This can cause you to lose control of your vehicle if you hydroplane.
• Watch for workers: Be aware of emergency personnel and crews treating and clearing roadways.
• Move crashed vehicles: In the event of a minor crash, safely move vehicles off the roadway if possible to maintain access for first responders and treatment crews. Do not abandon vehicles in travel lanes.

Cold Weather Safety

As you prepare for the cold weather conditions, please remember the 4 Ps of weather preparedness:

• People: Avoid going outside if it is not necessary. If you do, layer up before you head out.
• Pets: If you have a pet that typically lives outdoors, consider letting them inside when temperatures drop to freezing. If you absolutely cannot bring them inside, make sure they have a warm shelter, plenty of food, and fresh water.
• Pipes: Make sure to cover all of your exposed pipes with a cover.
• Plants: Consider bringing your outdoor plants inside. If you can't bring your plants inside, cover them with blankets.

Trash, Recycling, and Debris Pickup Schedule Changes 

Due to the impending winter storm, adjustments to trash and recycling services have been made to ensure safety and efficiency.

Curbside Trash and Recycling

• Wednesday routes will move to Thursday.
• Thursday routes will move to Friday.
• Debris Pickup
• Tuesday and Wednesday routes will be picked up Thursday.
• Thursday and Friday routes will be picked up Friday.

Stay informed and connected during this severe weather event by: 

• Signing up for emergency notifications from the City of Gulf Shores: https://gulfshoresal.gov/list.aspx 
• Obtaining a NOAA Weather Radio
• Detailed weather information, forecasts, and warnings for our area can be found online at www.weather.gov/mob 
• Downloading weather apps and following reliable social media channels US National Weather Service Mobile Alabama, City of Gulf Shores Municipal Government, Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency

The City will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as needed. For emergencies, remember to always call 911.