WET NIGHT AHEAD: Clouds have been increasing across Alabama today ahead of a storm system that will bring widespread rain to the state tonight.

The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) maintains a low-end marginal risk (level 1 out of 5) of severe thunderstorms tonight for the Gulf Coast, where a few storms could produce strong, gusty winds. But with limited instability, the overall threat is low.

For most of Alabama, the most widespread rain will come from 6 this evening to 3 a.m. Saturday. Amounts of around 1 inch are likely.

THE ALABAMA WEEKEND: Any lingering showers Saturday will end early and most of the day will be dry, although clouds will linger. Sunday will be rain-free with a mix of sun and clouds; highs over the weekend will be in the 50s.

NEXT WEEK: A dynamic weather system will bring rain and thunderstorms back to Alabama Monday into Tuesday morning. The SPC has defined a risk of severe thunderstorms for the southern third of Alabama for Monday night and early Tuesday morning.

Thunderstorms over south Alabama Monday night will be capable of producing strong winds, and an isolated tornado or two is possible as well. Rain will be heavy at times statewide Monday into Tuesday morning and amounts of 1-2 inches are likely. Gradient winds (not related to thunderstorms) will be strong as well, with gusts to 45 mph likely in spots.

The weather will be dry Wednesday and Thursday, and yet another rain-producing system arrives on Friday. There’s still no sign of any bitterly cold air or high-impact winter weather for Alabama for the next seven to 10 days.DROUGHT MONITOR: The new drought monitor was released Thursday, showing 79% of Alabama in drought. An extreme drought remains over parts of north Alabama.

ON THIS DATE IN 1962: Two tornadoes, about 100 yards apart and each making paths about 100 yards wide, followed parallel paths from southeast to northwest through the edge of Crestview, Florida’s residential area, killing one and injuring 30 others.

For more weather news and information from James Spann and his team, visit AlabamaWx.