By ADAM DODSON | The Selma Times-Journal

2018 will ring in the New Year and some of the coldest weather in recent memory.

According to meteorologist Jason Holmes with the Birmingham National Weather Service, Saturday, Jan. 30 through Wednesday, Jan. 2 will bring several hours of freezing temperatures.

However, Saturday night is forecasted to drop below freezing to 29 degrees, and Sunday night has a low of 26 with a 20 percent chance of precipitation.

According to Holmes, Selma residents are more likely to see cold rain or sleet than they are snow this weekend. More recent runs have appeared drier though.

New Year’s Day will feature a sunny 40 degrees with a drop in the temperature to the 20s come nighttime.

Tuesday will be particularly cold with a high of only 39 degrees.

“People need to prepare,” Holmes said. “Some have different forecasts, so there is still some uncertainty.”

Household/Car Maintenance

•Make sure to have working carbon monoxide detectors. According to ready.gov, 430 deaths occur in the United States each year as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning. Natural gas pipes can experience complications in cold weather.

•In below-freezing temperatures, keep water running at a slow pace to prevent pipes from bursting.

•Learn where the water valves are and how to shut them off in case of a busted pipe.

•Keep extra sleeping bags, blankets and coats in case the heat goes out.

•If using a generator, make sure it is not in an enclosed area

•Keep an emergency kit specifically created for your car

•Make sure to keep dry in the cold conditions. Wet socks or other clothes lead to a significant loss of body heat.

Pets

•If a pet owner is out of town during cold weather conditions, have a friend or neighbor be accountable for checking on the pet for you.

•Create an emergency kit for your pet. Items which include: food, water, medicine, documentation, a picture of you and your pet together, and a first-aid kit.

•Make sure all pets are inside.

In need of shelter

•Make sure to check on elderly or disabled neighbors. Those looking for shelter in the wake of the cold may seek assistance with organizations such as the American Red Cross or United Way.

• In the event of having to shelter inside your own home due to severe weather: lock doors and close windows with all members inside, seal all windows and doors, ready your emergency supply kit, be up-to-date with local information from your television or radio.

• If you need to shelter a pet, there are multiple rescue shelters located throughout Selma. Such as: Selma Animal Shelter, Habitat for Humanity, and Wannabe Rescued.

• If stationed at a mass care shelter, remember to bring a personal emergency supply kit. This could help with possible supply shortages due to high demand.