Alabama is set for a week of shifting weather conditions, starting with mild and sunny days, followed by rain and thunderstorms over the weekend, and ending with a sharp drop in temperatures. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare for the changes.
Mild Start to the Week
The week begins with pleasant weather across the state. Birmingham and Montgomery will enjoy sunshine and daytime highs in the upper 50s to low 60s. Tuscaloosa and Mobile will see similar conditions, with clear skies making it a great time to head outdoors. Even Huntsville, which started the day below freezing, will warm up to nearly 50°F.
Stormy Weekend Ahead
By Friday, clouds will begin to move in, signaling the arrival of a frontal system. Saturday will bring rain and thunderstorms to much of the state. Mobile may experience heavier downpours and occasional thunder, while cities like Birmingham and Montgomery will see steady rainfall.
The Arctic Blast Arrives
After the rain clears on Sunday, temperatures will plummet as an Arctic front moves through. By Monday, most of Alabama will be much colder. Birmingham and Huntsville will struggle to reach highs in the low 30s, while overnight lows will drop into the teens in northern areas. Mobile and Montgomery will see highs in the 40s, but nighttime temperatures will still dip below freezing.
City-by-City Highlights
- Birmingham: Sunshine midweek with highs around 60°F, turning rainy on Saturday. By Sunday, highs will fall to the upper 30s, with lows in the teens by Monday night.
- Montgomery: Expect mild weather with highs near 63°F midweek, but rain will dominate the weekend. Afterward, highs will drop into the 40s, with freezing nights.
- Mobile: A mix of clouds and sunshine to start the week, followed by thunderstorms on Saturday. Temperatures will drop significantly, with highs in the low 50s on Sunday and Monday.
- Huntsville: Sunny and cool midweek with highs near 50°F, but a colder pattern will take over. Expect highs in the low 30s by Monday and lows in the teens.
What You Need to Know
The rain and thunderstorms this weekend could lead to slick roads and reduced visibility, so take extra caution if traveling. Once the Arctic blast arrives, ensure you’re ready for freezing temperatures that could last several days.
Tips to Stay Prepared
- Stay Weather-Aware: Monitor local forecasts for updates on rain and potential storms over the weekend.
- Dress in Layers: Prepare for colder temperatures by wearing layers to stay warm.
- Secure Loose Items: If storms bring gusty winds, make sure outdoor furniture and decorations are secure.
- Protect Pipes and Plants: With freezing conditions expected, take precautions to prevent pipes from bursting and protect outdoor plants.
This week’s weather is a true Alabama mix, with sunny days, rainy weekends, and icy cold nights. Stay safe, stay warm, and keep an eye on the changing conditions as we head into a wintery start to next week.