By ADAM DODSON | The Selma Times-Journal

The Birmingham division of the National Weather Service has put multiple Central Alabama counties, including Dallas County, under a hard freeze warning through at least Wednesday.

Birmingham National Weather Service meteorologist Jason Davis said the cold weather will be around to stay.

The low Tuesday morning is expected to drop to 16 degrees with a wind chill factor in the single digits. The high Tuesday will remain below freezing, but things will begin to thaw somewhat Wednesday with a high of 42 degrees.

The rest of the week will have highs around 40 degrees with lows dropping into the 20s each night.

While Alabama is no stranger to cold weather in winter, the longevity of the low temperatures is what Davis says is different about this situation.

“It is unusual for the cold weather to stick around for several days like it is projected,” Davis said.

With the cold weather not projected to leave anytime soon, preparations for the conditions may be necessary.

Davis provides a few tips on how to handle the frigid climate, known as “The Four P’s.”

•People: make sure to take care of your neighbors and check on the elderly, who are more susceptible to the cold conditions.

•Pets: animals oftentimes struggle with the cold as much as humans. Make sure all pets are warm with protection.

•Pipes: pipes can burst in the freezing temperatures. Make sure to keep water flowing in pipes to prevent bursts. Insulation of homes is also important.

•Plants: multiple types of vegetation cannot last for continuous periods of below-average temperatures. Be aware of the conditions of your plants and also what can be done for preservation.

Afternoon highs will warm to the 50s by this coming Saturday and Sunday.