For the rest of the week, the forecast calls for warmer weather in Chambers County after a couple of days of cooler temperatures.

Anyone who has lived in Alabama for any amount of time knows the temperature outside figures to jump up and down like a yo-yo until spring, when the warmth will return for good. On Tuesday, wind chills were below freezing both in the morning and evening hours, serving as a reminder that winter is coming in a couple of weeks.

There’s not any winter precipitation on the horizon right now, but last winter brought two different systems that resulted in snow on the ground in Chambers County.

Although we don’t typically see the type of snow totals as states up north, any type of wintry precipitation causes problems on roadways and to work schedules. The south just isn’t as prepared to handle snowfall.

Of course, it wouldn’t be unheard of for the Valley area to get no snow or ice at all this winter. You just never really know in Alabama. Regardless, the key is to be ready for winter and for winter storms.

Alabama Power provides energy saving tips for winter on its website. Some of the most interesting ones are covering up cold feet, which will help the rest of your body feel warm, and making sure the insulation in your attic is 10 to 12 inches deep to keep your home warm.

Alabama Power also recommends setting your thermostat at 68 degrees or lower during the day and even further down at night as you sleep.

There is plenty more information on the Alabama News Center website, including more safety tips to keep your power bill down as the weather outside cools down.

Winter officially starts Dec. 21, but it’s already gotten cold outside. Make sure to stock up on jackets, research energy tips and get ready.