RADAR CHECK: Large areas of mostly light rain are moving across North/Central Alabama early this morning in the humid, tropical air over the state. A flash flood watch is in effect for the Tennessee Valley, and much of Northeast Alabama today; this is where some spots received 5-8 inches of rain yesterday with major flash flooding issues. Major creeks, streams, and rivers are out of their banks.
People in flood prone areas need to pay attention to flash flood warnings later today if they are needed, and as always, “turn around, don’t drown”. The southern half of Alabama will be much drier with only isolated showers around. Expect a high today in the low to mid 80s.
REST OF THE WEEK: Understand we are in the time of the year when you will have the risk of a pop-up afternoon shower or storm just about every afternoon, and that chance will stay in the forecast daily. But, they should be fewer in number after today as an upper ridge rebuilds across the Deep South. This will also mean higher heat levels; expect highs in the upper 80s and low 90s with a mix of sun and clouds each day.
THE ALABAMA WEEKEND: The ridge weakens again, the air aloft will be a little colder, and the air more unstable. So, scattered showers and thunderstorms will likely be a little more numerous Saturday and Sunday. Highest chance of rain will come from noon to midnight, and highs will be in the 86-91 degree range. The sun will be out at times, and the weekend won’t be a total “wash-out”.
NEXT WEEK: Global models suggest the pattern will favor scattered to numerous showers and storms daily… See the video briefing for maps, graphics, and more details.
TROPICS: Tropical storm formation is not expected across the Atlantic basin for at least the next seven days. And the idea of a tropical low forming in the Gulf in 7-15 days has been pretty much been taken off the table by global models.
ON THIS DATE IN 1989: An F1 tornado moved through Orange Beach, injuring ten people. One home was destroyed and 5 sustained major damage. A total of 17 homes received minor damage. One mobile home was destroyed and another mobile home was damaged. To the west, eight tornadoes were spawned in southeast Louisiana during the pre-dawn hours that day.
Look for the next video briefing here by 3:00 this afternoon… enjoy the day!
