THIS AFTERNOON: As expected, temperatures are about 10 degrees cooler across North/Central Alabama this afternoon with 70s being reported, as opposed to the 80s we saw yesterday. The sky is mostly sunny, although a veil of high, thin clouds is still in place.

TOMORROW/FRIDAY: Dry weather continues; the sky will be partly to mostly sunny both days with a high between 69 and 72 degrees. Showers and storms are possible over far South Alabama south a stalled front… generally south of U.S. 84.

THE ALABAMA WEEKEND: New model guidance still suggests the weekend begins wet; we will forecast a cloudy and cool day with periods of rain… temperatures hold in the cool 50s all day. Then, on Sunday, sunshine returns, but the day will be breezy and cool with a high between 57 and 60 degrees. Sunday morning will be cold with mid 30s likely… colder pockets could see a light freeze. A north wind of 7-14 mph should mitigate the risk of widespread frost early Sunday.

Monday morning could very well wind up being the coldest, with lows in the 28-35 degree range with potential for widespread frost across North/Central Alabama with a clear sky and light wind. Growers beware.

NEXT WEEK: The weather stays dry Tuesday and Wednesday with a warming trend; showers and storms return on Thursday (March 24). See the Weather Xtreme video for maps, graphics, and more details.

AT THE BEACH: The sky will be mostly cloudy on the coast from Gulf Shores over to Panama City Beach through Saturday with the risk of showers and storms daily through Saturday, then sunshine returns in full force Sunday and into early next week. See a very detailed Gulf Coast forecast here.

STORM SPOTTER TRAINING: We are offering basic SKYWARN training at several locations across North/Central Alabama in March, followed by the big event, Storm Spotter Xtreme 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!

WEATHER BRAINS: Don’t forget you can listen to our weekly 90 minute netcast anytime on the web, or on iTunes. This is the show all about weather featuring many familiar voices, including our meteorologists here at ABC 33/40.

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