Rain/Strong Storms Tonight, Then Cooler
RADAR CHECK: Rain is increasing over Alabama late this afternoon…
STRONG STORMS TONIGHT: Rain will become widespread tonight as an upper trough approaches from the west. Thunderstorms are very possible, and SPC maintains a “marginal” risk of severe weather tonight along and south of I-20…
No doubt the highest risk of severe weather tonight will come over the southern half of the state, along and south of U.S. 80 (Demopolis to Selma to Montgomery to Opelika). But a few strong storms are possible as far north as I-20.
Wind profiles suggests there could be a few isolated, brief tornadoes across South Alabama tonight, but the main threat will come from gusty thunderstorm winds. There will be no surface based instability over North Alabama, and severe weather is not expected there.
Rain amounts around 1 inch are likely, with isolated heavier amounts, especially over East and Southeast Alabama.
TOMORROW: Rain will end from west to east during the morning, and we should begin to see gradual afternoon clearing. Temperatures will hold in the 50s all day as cooler air begins to invade the state.
FRIDAY AND THE WEEKEND: The weather will feature sunny cool days and clear cold nights. We will be close to freezing early Friday, and upper 20s are likely at daybreak Saturday. Another freeze is a good possibility Sunday morning as well. The high will be close to 50 on Friday, mid 50s Saturday, and upper 50s Sunday.
UNSETTLED WEATHER CHRISTMAS WEEK: Moisture returns quickly Monday, and showers are possible by afternoon. Then, we expect occasional showers and thunderstorms Tuesday through Thursday with mild afternoons; we will be close to 70 degrees by Wednesday.
Unfortunately the latest model data suggests that we could very well have a setup for strong to severe thunderstorms Wednesday, Wednesday night, and possibly into the day Thursday. It remains to be seen if this will be a major threat, but it is clearly something to watch closely since so many people will be traveling.
Christmas Day looks dry and cooler with a high around 60 degrees on Friday, December 25. See the Weather Xtreme video for maps, graphics, and more details.
WHITE CHRISTMAS? Best chance of seeing snow on the ground will be far to the northwest of Alabama…
FOOTBALL WEATHER: Jacksonville State will host Sam Houston State in the semifinals of the FCS playoff Saturday at Burgess Snow Stadium (3:00p CT kickoff)… perfect football weather is the story with a clear and cool day. Temperatures will fall from near 52 degrees at kickoff, to about 43 by the final whistle.
AT THE BEACH: Strong storms are likely on the coast tonight, ending tomorrow morning. Then, cool and dry weather is likely Friday through the weekend from Gulf Shores over to Panama City Beach. 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.
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Look for the next Weather Xtreme video here by 7:00 a.m. tomorrow…
Category: Alabama's Weather
About the Author (Author Profile)
James Spann is one of the most recognized and trusted television meteorologists in the industry. He holds the AMS CCM designation and television seals from the AMS and NWA. He is a past winner of the Broadcast Meteorologist of the Year from both professional organizations.Subscribe
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