Nice to see the sunshine back across Central Alabama on this first official day of winter. But the sun is not helping very much in the face of strong cold air advection.
Northwest winds are averaging 10-15 mph. The gustiness has decreased a bit, except over eastern sections. These brisk winds are making it feel even colder.
Temperatures fell back into the 30s over northwestern and western sections, near 40 in the middle of the state and lower 40s over the east. With the near full sunshine, they are making a valiant rally, but it will be slow going. Readings will edge up a few degrees before falling back by mid-afternoon.
Skies cleared quickly this morning, as expected. A few streaks of high clouds will move across the sky at times, but it will remain generally sunny.
Under clear skies tonight, readings will drop like a rock. Winds may stay up just enough to pad lows by a few degrees, but an average low of 20F is expected with teens in colder locations.
Monday will see readings remianing in the 30s in many locations. Lucky spots will rise into the lower 40s.
A sneak peek at the morning run of the GFS shows no surprises in the midrange forecast for Tuesday through Sunday. Tuesday will feature moderating temperatures and increasing moisture. Wednesday will feature showers and a band of rain/storms overnight. Showers han around on Thursday and Friday. The activity is finally swept out by a stronger cold front late on Sunday.
