Alabama’s Weather Forecast: Storms Expected Mid-Week as Hurricane Season Approaches
Alabama will experience scattered showers and thunderstorms throughout mid-week, with the southern half at risk for severe weather. A cold front will bring cooler temperatures at week’s end, providing a respite with drier conditions for the weekend. The Atlantic hurricane season begins June 1, but currently, no activity is noted.
The Weather Authority has indicated that residents of Alabama can expect scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms through mid-week. This afternoon, light rain began to make its way into Northwest Alabama, while southern counties experienced some spotty showers. However, much of the state enjoyed a dry Memorial Day, with temperatures varying from the mid-70s in the Tennessee Valley to the low 90s in Dothan.
As we look ahead, a line of strong thunderstorms currently situated along I-55 in Mississippi is anticipated to reach Alabama later today as the day progresses. The southern half of the state is where the highest risk for severe storms lies, with strong, gusty winds and possibly small hail being the main threats.
The weather forecast for the rest of the week remains steady, with a pattern of partly sunny days punctuated by scattered showers and storms. Daytime highs are expected to hover in the 80s. Some heavier storms may develop, capable of gusty winds and small hail; however, there are no concerns regarding tornado activity at this time. A cold front is predicted to sweep through on Friday, ushering in drier air and resulting in cooler temperatures, particularly in the northern counties where highs will drop to the upper 70s.
Looking toward the weekend, the forecast currently appears favorable, with a prospect for rain-free conditions on Saturday and at least part of Sunday. Humidity will decrease, with northern Alabama experiencing cooler temperatures in the 50s on Saturday morning. Highs for the weekend are expected to be in the low 80s while global models suggest the possibility of rain returning late Sunday afternoon.
As we move into the next month, the Atlantic hurricane season is poised to commence on June 1 and will last until the end of November. Historically, the most significant hurricanes form in August, September, and early October. Thankfully, there is currently little activity noted in the tropics, and no pre-season storms are expected this week.
Reflecting on historical weather events, on this date in 1917, a catastrophic tornadic thunderstorm traversed a 293-mile path across portions of central Illinois and Indiana. Initially thought to be a single tornado, it was later determined to likely consist of at least eight distinct tornadoes, tragically resulting in 101 fatalities and 638 injuries.
In a more modern event on this date in 2003, a BMI Airbus flight from Manchester, England to Cyprus encountered severe turbulence from a thunderstorm over Germany, resulting in a damaging hailstorm. The aircraft suffered significant damage, including a football-sized hole, but remarkably, all 213 passengers and eight crew members emerged without serious injuries.
In summary, Alabama’s weather will feature scattered thunderstorms this week, with the worst expected in the southern region. A cold front on Friday will bring drier air and cooler temperatures. As we approach the hurricane season, currently, there are no tropical threats on the horizon. Historically, significant weather events occurred on this date, showcasing the severity of tornadoes and storm-related turbulence.
Original Source: abc3340.com
