BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – First Alert AccuTrack shows a partly sunny sky across Central Alabama as we head into the evening with some isolated thunderstorms developing over northwest Alabama. Though a severe weather outbreak is possible off to our northwest across the Mid South, our severe threat remains low for Central Alabama; however, isolated severe storms could continue to develop across the far northwest corner of the state. If a storm does develop, it could produce hail or strong wind gusts. The tornado threat is low but not zero, so we’ll keep an eye out for any suspicious looking pop-ups.
A Wind Advisory remains in effect until 1 AM CDT Thursday morning. Southerly winds have been coming off the Gulf at 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph possible. Windy conditions will continue to stir up pollen, so make sure you’re taking care of your allergies and sinuses! Near record-breaking heat will continue for the rest of the work week and potentially into the start of the weekend. Morning will remain mild and humid with lows in the upper 60s and afternoon highs soaring into the upper 80s. With the high humidity levels, feels like temperatures could climb into the low 90s. Rain chances remain low thanks to a ridge’s stronghold across Alabama. The best chance to see a pop-up thunderstorm will be across far northwest Alabama.
Next Big Thing: As we look ahead to the weekend, the ridge of high pressure will finally begin to break down, allowing a strong storm system to move back into the state on Sunday. We could see strong to severe storms arrive in northwest Alabama late in the day on Saturday with more widespread rain and storms possible beginning during the overnight hours and sticking around through Sunday morning. Similar to the system we saw on Monday, this incoming line of storms will be capable of producing heavy rain, damaging winds, large hail, and isolated tornadoes. We will continue to fine-tune the timing and threats in the days ahead.
This weekend’s storm system will usher a strong cold front across Central Alabama, warranting a First Alert for a frost and freeze threat by the middle of next week. So, don’t get too ambitious in your gardens just yet! Below average temperatures will likely stick around for several days next week…