James Spann: A few storms later today, tonight in Alabama from Alabama NewsCenter on Vimeo.

RADAR CHECK: We have a few small, light showers across Central Alabama as the day begins.

Scattered showers and storms will likely develop during midday and afternoon. Otherwise, expect a mix of sun and clouds today with a high in the mid 80s. A more organized band of showers and thunderstorms is likely tonight over North Alabama ahead of a cold front. SPC maintains a “marginal risk” of severe storms for about the northern quarter of Alabama.

The primary dynamic support will pass pretty far to the north of Alabama, so a major severe weather problem isn’t expected, but a few of the stronger storms could produce some hail and strong, gusty winds over the northern counties of the state this evening. The main window for the stronger storms will come from about 5 until 9 p.m. Rain amounts should average around one-half inch for most communities.

TOMORROW AND THE WEEKEND: Cooler, drier air arrives late tonight, setting the stage for some really nice weather on these three days. Sunny, pleasant days and clear, cool nights. The high tomorrow will be around 80; then most places will see a high in the 70s Saturday and Sunday. Morning lows will drop into the 50s; some of the cooler spots could see 40s early Sunday morning.

NEXT WEEK: The latest GFS run hints the best chance of showers and storms should be in the Wednesday-Thursday time frame; highs will be in the 80s. The overall risk of severe weather continues to look low.

AT THE BEACH: A few scattered storms are possible tomorrow. Otherwise, expect mostly sunny days and fair nights from Gulf Shores to Panama City Beach through early next week. Highs will be around 80 on the immediate coast, with mid 80s inland. See a very detailed Gulf Coast forecast here.

REGIONS TRADITION: The Regions Tradition will be held this year at the Greystone Golf and Country Club May 18-22. Early data suggest the highest risk of showers will come Wednesday and Thursday (May 18-19), followed by mostly dry weather Friday through the weekend (May 20-22). Get more information about the tournament here.

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 meteorologists at ABC 33/40.

For more weather news and information, visit AlabamaWX.