Alabama 811 | Know What's Below.

Rising Heat Levels In Coming Days

| July 18, 2017 @ 6:38 am

UPPER RIDGE TO STRENGTHEN: Let’s say up front that we will have some risk of an afternoon storm every day through the weekend, but they will gradually become fewer in number each day for the rest of the week as an upper ridge begins to build across the Deep South. Warmer air aloft associated with the ridge means a more stable airmass, making it harder for afternoon convection to initiate.

The chance of any one spot getting wet this afternoon is about one in three, but odds drop down into the 15-20 percent range tomorrow through Friday.

And, with fewer showers and storms around, heat levels will be rising. The high today will be at or just over 90, but mid 90s are a good possibility tomorrow through Friday. Generally speaking, temperatures so far this summer have been below average, so you have to figure the heat will break out at some point here in mid to late July.

THE ALABAMA WEEKEND: The ridge begins to slowly weaken, which will open the door for an increase in the number of afternoon and evening showers and storms, especially on Sunday. Otherwise, we will forecast a mix of sun and clouds both days with a high in the low 90s Saturday, and then in the 88-91 degree range Sunday.

NEXT WEEK: The heat ridge will be centered well to the west of Alabama, and around here we will deal with scattered, mostly afternoon and evening showers and storms on a daily basis with highs in the upper 80s or low 90s. No sign of any extended periods of excessive heat, thankfully. See the Weather Xtreme video for maps, graphics, and more details.

IN THE TROPICS: Tropical Storm Don developed yesterday in the Atlantic; it will pass through the Windward Islands tonight, and into the southern Caribbean tomorrow. Top sustained winds are near 50 mph, but the system is not expected to reach hurricane strength. In fact, NHC expects Don to weaken into an open wave by Thursday due a harsh environment near the coast of South America.

Another wave (96L) trails Don in the Atlantic; this will gain latitude, and should pass north of the Leeward Islands later this week. Some chance of slow development in the short term, but longer term conditions don’t look especially favorable.

BEACH FORECAST: Click here to see the AlabamaWx Beach Forecast Center page. The Beach Forecast is partially underwritten by the support of Brett/Robinson Vacation Rentals in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Click here to see Brett/Robinson’s Own Your Summer specials now!

WEATHER BRAINS: Don’t forget you can listen to our weekly 90 minute netcast anytime on the web, or on iTunes. This is the show all about weather featuring many familiar voices, including our meteorologists here at ABC 33/40.

CONNECT: You can find me on all of the major social networks…

Facebook
Twitter
Google Plus
Instagram
Pinterest
Snapchat: spannwx

I will be speaking at the weekly meeting of the Pell City Rotary Club today… look for the next Weather Xtreme video here by 4:00 this afternoon. Enjoy the day!

Tags: ,

Category: Alabama's Weather, ALL POSTS, Weather Xtreme Videos

About the Author ()

James Spann is one of the most recognized and trusted television meteorologists in the industry. He holds the AMS CCM designation and television seals from the AMS and NWA. He is a past winner of the Broadcast Meteorologist of the Year from both professional organizations.

Comments are closed.