A Possible Respite from the Heat for Alabama?

Alabama is bracing for another round of scorching temperatures this Sunday and in the coming days. However, there might be a glimmer of hope on the horizon for at least some parts of the state.

The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories for sections of south Alabama today, anticipating extremely high temperatures across the entire state. Highs are expected to soar into the mid- to upper 90s, and when coupled with rising humidity levels, areas in south Alabama could experience heat indices of up to 110 degrees this afternoon. The heat advisory, covering Choctaw, Washington, Clarke, Escambia, Covington, Mobile, and Baldwin counties, remains in effect until 7 p.m. today.

While the rest of Alabama will also endure hot and humid conditions, the heat index is not projected to reach advisory levels according to the weather service.

The forecast for Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday suggests similar heat and humidity levels. However, a slight change is anticipated starting Thursday. The weather service predicts temperatures to ease slightly, with highs in the upper 80s and low 90s compared to the mid- to upper 90s. Additionally, there might be increased chances of rain.

This pattern is expected to continue through Friday and Saturday, marking the end of the weather service’s forecast period.

More encouraging news comes from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, which provides longer-range outlooks. Their six- to ten-day temperature outlook brings a ray of hope with the possibility of below-average temperatures for parts of Alabama.

Specifically, areas in north Alabama shaded in darker blue have a 40-50 percent probability of experiencing below-average temperatures. However, the probabilities decrease as one moves southward, with coastal Alabama still likely to face above-average temperatures. This forecast period extends from July 19-23.

While this outlook suggests a break from the intense heat, it’s important to note that "below-average temperatures" for mid-July in Alabama doesn't mean you'll need coats and sweaters just yet.