Birmingham Braces for Potential Severe Weather and Flooding
Weather Outlook and Advisories:
Birmingham and Central Alabama are under the watch of a Flood Watch until 6 p.m. CST as heavy rainfall continues to drench the region. A First Alert Weather Day has been declared for Saturday as another low-pressure system approaches, bringing the likelihood of more heavy rain and strong wind gusts. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a marginal (Level 1 out of 5) risk for much of Central Alabama and a slight (Level 2 out of 5) risk for areas along and east of I-65 for severe weather.
Current Conditions and Forecast:
Morning temperatures hover between the upper 50s and low 60s, with heavy rain and patchy fog blanketing the area. The rain is expected to persist throughout the morning, transitioning into storms in the afternoon before 7 p.m. Afternoon temperatures are forecasted to reach the upper 60s and lower 70s. Surface temperatures will play a crucial role in determining the severity of the weather this afternoon.
Potential Severe Weather:
The primary threat posed by the approaching weather system is heavy rainfall, which could lead to localized flooding. An additional 1-2 inches of rain is possible through Saturday, bringing total rainfall amounts to 5-6 inches in some areas over the past week. The risk of severe storms is considered low, but the possibility of embedded strong to severe storms capable of producing damaging wind gusts is not ruled out, particularly across east-central Alabama. If severe thunderstorms occur, they are most likely to develop during the late morning or afternoon hours on Saturday.
Sunday’s Forecast:
Lingering showers are possible Sunday morning, gradually giving way to drier conditions. Despite the lack of significant sunshine, skies will remain cloudy. Temperatures will reach a maximum of the low 50s on Sunday, dropping to the mid to upper 30s overnight into Monday morning. Breezy north winds and wind chills in the 40s are expected on Sunday.
Extended Forecast:
Apart from a few possible sprinkles on Tuesday, the weather is expected to become clearer and colder through Wednesday of next week. Temperatures may rise above average to the upper 50s and low 60s by next weekend, accompanied by more sunshine. The next chance of rain is not anticipated until the first weekend of February.
Stay Informed and Prepared:
For the latest weather information and updates, download the WBRC First Alert Weather App. Sign up for news alerts in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or subscribe to the email newsletter.
Call to Action:
Stay safe during this potentially severe weather event. Heed the advisories and warnings issued by local authorities. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and be prepared to take action if necessary.