CALM MARCH PATTERN: Temperatures are in the mid to upper 30s across parts of East and South Alabama early this morning; reports from the rest of the state are mostly in the low 40s. Expect a nice warm-up today with a sunny sky; most communities will see a high in the 70s this afternoon.
The dry pattern will continue tomorrow and into the weekend, and the warming trend continues. The high tomorrow will be in the 76-82 degree range, and all of Alabama will see highs in the low to mid 80s Saturday and Sunday.
NEXT WEEK: No real change. Temperatures will back off a few degrees Monday and Tuesday, but 80s return over the latter half of the week. A ridge across the Deep South will keep rain producing systems away. No real sign of any meaningful rain for at least the next ten days, which is very unusual for late March. See the video briefing for maps, graphics, and more details.
SPRING ARRIVES TOMORROW: The vernal equinox is tomorrow at 9:46a CT… the day when we have approximately 12 hours of daylight, and 12 hours of darkness.
ON THIS DATE IN 2018: Six tornadoes and hail up to 5 inches in diameter affected the north half of Alabama. An EF-3 tornado moved through Jacksonville, producing major damage on the campus of Jacksonville State University. It was on the ground for 34 miles, with estimated winds peaking at 150 mph. Four people were injured; there were no fatalities. An EF-2 tornado moved from near Ashville to Southside.
Grapefruit sized hail fell on Cullman. One of the largest hailstones found was by Craig Mann; a laser scan analysis revealed the hailstone measured 5.38 inches in peak width, weighed 9.8 ounces, and had a circumference of 13.75 inches. This is the largest hailstone on record for Alabama.
Look for the next video briefing here by 3:00 this afternoon… enjoy the day!
