Slow Warming Trend Ahead

SLOW WARM-UP: Another delightful morning; Vic Bell up at Black Creek reports 54 degrees, many of the cooler pockets across North Alabama are between 53 and 58 for another nice taste of fall. Expect another sunny day today with a high in the mid 80s; the humidity will stay low. We stay dry tomorrow with a high in the upper 80s, and a few spots could touch 90. Keep in mind today is the 12th consecutive day with a high below 90 degrees in Birmingham.

THE ALABAMA WEEKEND: Moisture levels rise, and we will need to mention a chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms both days. Not a wash-out, but keep in mind you will have to dodge an occasional passing shower or storm Saturday and Sunday. Otherwise, days will feature a mix of sun and clouds with highs in the mid 80s.

NEXT WEEK: A decent chance we get into the subsidence ring surrounding what should be Hurricane Erika, meaning showers will be few and far between. Partly sunny days, fair nights, and highs in the 87 to 90 degree range most afternoons.

ERIKA: The tropical storm near the Leeward Islands is getting stronger and better organized this morning; maximum sustained winds are now estimated to be 50 mph.

The system is expected to move through the Bahamas over the weekend, then reaching hurricane strength just off the Florida Atlantic Coast Monday.

It is important to note that this forecast track can, and probably will change, so all interests in the Florida Peninsula up through the coast of the Carolinas need to keep a close eye on this. We are very confident this will not be a Gulf of Mexico storm, and there will be no direct impact on Alabama (we stay on the dry side). See the Weather Xtreme video for maps, graphics, and more details.

AT THE BEACH: Mostly sunny weather continues today and tomorrow along the coast from Panama City Beach west to Gulf Shores with only a slight risk of a shower. Then, for the weekend, about 6 to 8 hours of sun Saturday and Sunday with a passing storm possible from time to time. Highs on the coast will stay in the 80s, and sea water temperatures remain mostly in the mid 80s.

Erika will have no impact on the Central Gulf Coast. See the complete Gulf Coast 7 Day Planner here. The Gulf Coast Beach Forecast is presented by Gulf Shores Plantation by Mandoki Hospitality Vacation Rentals. Escape to Gulf Shores Plantation where memories last a lifetime.

WEATHER BRAINS: Don’t forget you can listen to our weekly 90 minute netcast anytime on the web, or on iTunes. This is the show all about weather featuring many familiar voices, including our meteorologists here at ABC 33/40. We will produce a special on the 10th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina tonight at 8:30 CT… you can watch it on “James Spann 24/7” on cable systems around the state, or on the web here.

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I will be the emcee of a fundraiser today for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society in Birmingham… look for the next Weather Xtreme video here by 4:00 this afternoon. Enjoy the day!

Tags: ANC, dry

Category: Alabama's Weather