Don’t let the morning clouds fool you—North Alabama is baking beneath a suffocating heatwave. As of Friday morning, the National Weather Service has issued a heat advisory through 7 p.m., warning that the heat index—the “feels like” temperature when humidity is factored in—could climb as high as 107°F in Huntsville, Decatur, and surrounding areas.
This isn’t just another hot summer day. It’s a serious health threat. When heat and humidity mix like this, your body struggles to cool down. That makes even a short walk or outdoor chore potentially dangerous, especially for kids, older adults, and people with medical conditions. Authorities are urging everyone to take precautions—or risk becoming a heat-related emergency.
Why a 107° Heat Index Is More Than Just Uncomfortable
Let’s break it down: the air temperature in North Alabama today will hover around 88°F, but with sky-high humidity, it’ll feel more like 105 to 107°F on your skin. That’s because humid air slows down the evaporation of sweat, your body’s main cooling method. Without that relief, your internal temperature rises faster—sometimes too fast.
When that happens, you’re at risk for heat exhaustion, or worse, heat stroke—a medical emergency that can hit quickly and without much warning.
What’s worse, today’s heat is sitting under a “heat dome”, a stagnant zone of hot, humid air that traps warmth like a lid on a boiling pot. That means even shaded areas and early mornings won’t offer much relief.
City Impact: What to Expect in Huntsville and Decatur
In Huntsville, temps will push the high 80s by early afternoon, but the heat index will soar past 105°F—possibly reaching 107°F in areas with minimal breeze.
In Decatur, expect nearly identical conditions: sweltering heat, little air movement, and thunderstorms in the afternoon that may bring brief, but deceptive relief. These storms often leave behind even more humidity, causing the evening to feel just as muggy as the afternoon.
The heat advisory remains in effect until 7 p.m., and could be extended if conditions worsen.
Who’s at Risk—and How to Stay Safe
Some groups are more vulnerable than others, but everyone needs to take extra care today:
High-risk individuals include:
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Children and elderly adults
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People with heart, lung, or kidney conditions
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Outdoor workers or athletes training outside
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Pets, especially those walking on hot pavement or without shade
How to protect yourself and your loved ones:
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Drink water constantly, even if you’re not thirsty.
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Stay indoors during the heat of the day (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
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Dress light—opt for light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.
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Avoid heavy meals, alcohol, or caffeine—they dehydrate you faster.
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Check on neighbors who might be alone or without AC.
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Watch for symptoms like:
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Dizziness, nausea, headache, or heavy sweating (signs of heat exhaustion)
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Dry, red skin, confusion, or rapid pulse (signs of heat stroke—call 911 immediately)
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And remember: never leave children, elderly persons, or pets in a parked car—even for a minute. The temperature can rise 20 degrees in 10 minutes, with deadly consequences.
What About the Rain? Will It Help?
Some areas in North Alabama may see afternoon thunderstorms, but don’t count on these storms for true relief. While a downpour might cool things temporarily, it usually makes humidity worse once the rain stops. Plus, gusty winds and brief flooding may accompany some of these storms—adding another layer of risk to an already tough day.
What’s Ahead for the Weekend?
Looking forward, Saturday and Sunday may bring slightly lower temperatures—but not by much. Highs will remain in the upper 80s, and humidity will stick around, continuing the risk for heat-related issues.
Early next week, a cold front may sweep in, dropping humidity levels and temperatures closer to the low 80s. Until then, Friday remains the most dangerous day of this hot spell.
The Bottom Line
Today’s heat in North Alabama isn’t just intense—it’s extreme. With a heat index peaking at 107°F, the air is thick, the risk is real, and ignoring warnings could have life-threatening consequences.
Take today seriously. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and look out for those who can’t help themselves. The advisory ends at 7 p.m.—but don’t wait until then to take action.
