WET: As we move deeper into July, central and north Alabama are experiencing an unusually wet period for this time of year, driven by a persistent stationary front and broad troughing. Typically, summer in Alabama brings hot and relatively dry conditions, but we’re beginning to see an influx of moisture from the Gulf, leading to frequent showers and thunderstorms. This pattern is expected to continue into the next week, with daily rain chances of 60-70%, particularly in the afternoon and evening. This will help to keep temperatures in check, with highs mostly in the 80s and lows in the upper 60s to lower 70s. While the rain is welcome to alleviate any developing drought conditions, it also brings the risk of locally heavy downpours and potential flooding in some areas.

SATURDAY: That stationary front and a very moist air mass will keep the weather pattern wet with off-and-on waves of convection. Expect mostly cloudy skies with frequent showers and thunderstorms, especially in the afternoon and evening. Highs will reach around 85 degrees, and overnight lows will drop to about 70. Locally heavy downpours are possible, with rainfall amounts ranging from 0.07 to 0.51 inches. Winds will be light.

SUNDAY: The wet pattern continues. Expect a 70-80% chance of thunderstorms, primarily in the afternoon and evening, with highs around 84 and lows near 70. Rainfall amounts will range from one-quarter to one-half inch.

TROPICS: The Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico remain quiet with no areas of interest. Tropical development is not expected across the Atlantic basin this weekend and into at least next week.

Over the next two to three weeks, the amount of dust and dry air across the tropical Atlantic will decrease, leading to a more favorable environment for tropical systems. Model guidance indicates increased chances for tropical development starting in early August, with a significant increase in activity expected by or just before Aug. 10. This pattern is expected to bring a busy period of tropical activity that could last through August, September and October.

ON THIS DATE IN 1969: “Houston, Tranquility Base here, the Eagle has landed.” The lunar module of Apollo 11 landed on the moon at 3:17 p.m. We were mesmerized six hours and 39 minutes later when Neil Armstrong became the first man to walk on the moon. It was hot and humid across Alabama. The high at Birmingham was 95.

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