WEDNESDAY: Drier air will start working into the mid-levels of the atmosphere, which will reduce the scattered shower and thunderstorm chances for the northern half of Alabama. Unfortunately, there will continue to be plenty of moisture at the lower levels, which will keep the humidity high and the heat index elevated. A few isolated showers or storms will be possible along and north of I-20, while scattered to numerous showers and storms will be more likely over the southern half of the state during the afternoon. Highs will be in the lower to mid 90s.

A Heat Advisory is in effect for all counties in central Alabama until 7 p.m.

THE REST OF THE WEEK: The ridge strengthens on Thursday, which will give us a dry day with plenty of sun and plenty of heat. Highs will be in the mid to upper 90s. Look for the same story Friday — hot, humid weather with plenty of sunshine. Highs in the mid to upper 90s. Some locations may flirt with the century mark in the southern and western parts of the state.

THE ALABAMA WEEKEND: The ridge begins to weaken for the weekend and a cold front will begin to approach Alabama Saturday. Moisture levels will increase ahead of the front to introduce a small chance for a few isolated to scattered afternoon showers or storms. Highs will be in the lower to mid-90s. Rain chances increase somewhat as the front begins to move closer and eventually into northern Alabama on Sunday. Scattered showers and storms can be expected during the main heating of the day, especially during the late afternoon through the evening. Highs will be in the upper 80s to the mid 90s.

START OF NEXT WEEK: Showers and storms will be likely at times on Monday as the front continues to push southward. While we do not need the rain, the good news is that the oppressive heat will be gone for a bit. Highs will be in the mid 80s to the lower 90s.

Drier air will start to work into the northern half of the state on Tuesday, while the front continues to struggle to move out of the southern half. Scattered showers and storms will be possible south of I-20, while mostly sunny skies can be expected north of that. Highs will be in the mid to upper 80s for the most part.

TROPICS: All is quiet across the Atlantic Basin, and tropical cyclone formation is not expected within the next five days.

For more weather news and information from James Spann, Scott Martin and other members of the James Spann team, visit AlabamaWx.