James Spann: from Alabama NewsCenter on Vimeo.

RADAR CHECK: We have some big, loud storms around the Birmingham metro early this morning producing heavy rain and lots of lightning.

An upper trough, and the associated cold air aloft, will bring scattered to numerous showers and storms to Alabama through tomorrow. We still can’t promise rain for everyone, but many communities will see a heavy downpour or two along the way. And, it won’t be as hot today because of the clouds and showers; many places will stay below 90 degrees this afternoon. Low 90s are likely tomorrow afternoon with a mix of sun and clouds along with the scattered thunderstorms.

THURSDAY/FRIDAY: We note SPC has a “marginal risk” of severe weather defined for much of Alabama Thursday.

Showers and storms should actually be less numerous on Thursday, but we project a high in the mid to upper 90s, and this heat will make the air very unstable. Storms that form Thursday afternoon will have potential for wet microbursts. And, of course, all summer storms pack gobs of lightning. Remember, if you hear thunder, you are close enough to be hit by lightning. That is the time to get inside.

Friday will be another hot, humid day with the risk of “scattered, mostly afternoon and evening showers and thunderstorms.” And again on Friday, storms could pack a punch with a surface front approaching. Temperatures will rise well into the 90s again Friday afternoon.

THE ALABAMA WEEKEND: We have a pleasant airmass change coming; drier, continental air will enter the state, setting up a very nice weekend. Look for sunny days, fair, cooler nights and lower humidity Saturday and Sunday. Highs will be in the 80s both days, and some of the normally cooler spots could reach the 50s early Sunday.

NEXT WEEK: Heat and humidity levels will rise as the upper ridge builds again. Highs mostly in the 90s, and beginning Wednesday we will bring back the risk of scattered showers and thunderstorms.

TROPICS: All is quiet and tropical storm formation is not expected this week across the Atlantic basin.

AT THE BEACH: About five to seven hours of sunshine along the coast from Gulf Shores to Panama City Beach through Friday with the daily risk of scattered showers and thunderstorms. The weekend will feature sunny weather Saturday and Sunday with only a slight risk of shower. Highs will be in the upper 80s on the immediate coast, with 90s inland. See a detailed Gulf Coast forecast here.

WEATHER BRAINS: 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. We recorded a new episode last night.

For more weather news and information, visit AlabamaWX.