James Spann: Still dry and very mild tomorrow in Alabama

Published On: 03.08.16 |

By: James Spann

James Spann: Still dry and very mild tomorrow in Alabama

MILD MARCH AFTERNOON: Temperatures are in the 70s across much of Alabama this afternoon with a partly sunny sky; nothing on the radar. But, to the west, we are watching very active weather over parts of Texas, Louisiana, and Arkansas where flash flood watches and a tornado watch are in effect.

TOMORROW: We expect another dry and very mild day with a high in the mid to upper 70s. A few spots across West Alabama might even touch 80 degrees briefly.

THURSDAY: As the big upper trough begins to lift out of Mexico, we will mention a chance of scattered showers Thursday, but nothing too widespread or heavy. The sky will be occasionally cloudy, and we stay mild with a high in the 70s.

FRIDAY/SATURDAY: These two days will offer the highest coverage of showers and thunderstorms. The good news is that the upper trough will be filling/weakening as it moves northeast, and we still don’t expect any severe weather in Alabama, although a strong storm is not out of the question. It won’t be a complete wash-out, but if you have something planned outdoors on these two days expect rain delays. Highs will be in the 71-74 degree range.

SUNDAY: This should be the driest day of the weekend with the trough moving away from Alabama, the sky will be partly sunny with a high in the 70s. For now we won’t mention any chance of rain.

NEXT WEEK: Just the risk of a few isolated showers Monday and Tuesday, otherwise the first half of the week looks mild and pleasant. Next decent rain event should come toward the end of the week… see the Weather Xtreme video for maps, graphics, and more details.

AT THE BEACH: About 6 to 8 hours of sunshine tomorrow, then a few showers are possible Thursday. Showers and storms are likely on the Gulf Coast from Panama City Beach over to Gulf Shores Friday and Saturday, followed by a mostly sunny day Sunday. Highs on the immediate coast will be in the 60s, with 70s inland. And, there is a high danger of rip currents this week. Sea water temperatures are in the 60s. See a very detailed Gulf Coast forecast here.

SPOTTER TRAINING IN JACKSONVILLE TONIGHT! We are offering basic SKYWARN training at four locations across North/Central Alabama in March… and the first session is tonight at the Jacksonville Community Center at 6:30 p.m.

The big event, Storm Spotter Xtreme, will be held on Saturday, April 9 at the BJCC from 9am to 2pm. This will feature both the basic and advanced SKYWARN classes, along with a session from Kevin Laws of the Birmingham NWS office. And, if you come, you get free admission to the Alabama International Auto Show, going on at the BJCC that same day. There is no cost and no need to register. Just show up with a curious mind. Kids 10 and older will also enjoy this if they love weather and want to learn more. Please help us make the severe weather warning process better!