James Spann: A few strong storms for Alabama later today
James Spann forecasts some showers, storms to finish off the Alabama work week from Alabama NewsCenter on Vimeo.
RADAR CHECK: We have a few isolated showers over northwest Alabama early this morning, with a larger area of rain over west Tennessee and north Mississippi. We expect a general increase in the number of showers and thunderstorms across Alabama later today and tonight ahead of an approaching cold front. The Storm Prediction Center maintains a marginal risk (level 1 of 5) for much of north and central Alabama; the main threat with the heavier storms will come from gusty winds and small hail.
While showers remain possible over northwest Alabama this morning, most of the showers and storms will come from about 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. for the northern half of the state. The activity mostly shifts down into south Alabama after 7 p.m. Rain distribution won’t be very even, but a few spots could see more than one-half inch of rain where stronger thunderstorms develop. Expect a high today in the low 80s with more clouds than sun.
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND: A cooler, dry air mass will roll into Alabama late tonight, setting the stage for a very nice holiday weekend with mostly sunny, pleasant days and clear, cool nights Saturday through Monday. Highs drop into the 70s Saturday and Sunday, with mid 80s by Monday. The coolest morning will come early Sunday, when colder pockets will drop into the 40s over the northern half of the state. It probably will be the last time that happens until sometime in late September or October.
REST OF NEXT WEEK: Moisture begins to return Tuesday, and we will mention a chance of isolated showers; then we are forecasting scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms Wednesday through Friday as an upper trough sets up west of Alabama. Highs through the week will be in the 80s.
TROPICS: All remains quiet across the Atlantic basin, and tropical storm formation is not expected through early next week. The official beginning of the Atlantic basin hurricane season is Tuesday.
SEC BASEBALL TOURNAMENT: A passing shower or storm is likely at the Hoover Met later today, but the weather will be dry and pleasant tonight through the weekend. Expect lots of sunshine Saturday and Sunday with highs in the 70s and lower humidity levels.
ON THIS DATE IN 1973: An F3 tornado moved east and struck the northern portion of Athens, Georgia. Destruction was massive near Athens, with losses estimated at $10 million. Damage from the storm included 545 homes and 17 businesses. Hundreds of large trees more than 100 years old were destroyed.
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