Alabama Braces for a Wet Weekend as a Slow-Moving Front Brings 2 to 4 Inches of Beneficial Rain, Some Thunder, and a Possible Flooding Risk
Alabama – After a stretch of warm and mostly dry weather, Alabama is heading into a relatively wet weekend. Moisture levels will rise late in the week, with showers possible Friday across the southern half of the state. Then, as a slow-moving surface front and upper-level trough approach, periods of rain and some thunder are expected on Saturday and Sunday. Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are likely for much of the state, which will be welcome news for dry areas, though some flooding issues could develop.
Friday: Showers Mainly in South Alabama
The pattern begins to change on Friday as moisture levels rise across the state. Showers are possible during the day, mainly over the southern half of Alabama, including areas around Montgomery, Dothan, and Mobile. Northern Alabama should stay mostly dry on Friday, though clouds will begin to increase ahead of the weekend system.
A Relatively Wet Weekend Ahead
As the slow-moving front and upper trough move closer, Alabama will deal with a relatively wet weekend. The good news is that it will not be a total washout. Instead, residents should expect periods of rain on Saturday and Sunday, with some dry breaks in between.
Because the system is moving slowly, rain could linger over the same areas for several hours at a time, allowing totals to build up across much of the state.
Thunder Possible, but Severe Storms Not Expected
Severe thunderstorms are not expected at this point. However, some thunder is very possible on both days. Anyone planning outdoor activities, including football games, tailgates, or weekend events, should head indoors if thunder is heard, since lightning can strike even when the heaviest rain is still miles away.
Beneficial Rain of 2 to 4 Inches
The biggest story this weekend is the rain itself. Beneficial rain is likely, with totals in the 2 to 4 inch range for much of the state. Some forecast guidance has been trending higher, which means a few areas could end up with even more.
The 7-day rainfall outlook, running through Tuesday, October 6, shows many parts of Alabama picking up around 3 to nearly 5 inches. Some of the higher totals are showing up across north-central and northeast Alabama, where amounts near 4 to 5 inches are possible. Central and south Alabama are also expected to see totals mostly in the 3.5 to 4.5 inch range.
Areas closer to the Gulf Coast, including the Mobile region, could see even higher totals, with some projections showing 5 inches or more near the coast.
Some Flooding Issues Possible
With several inches of rain falling over a couple of days, some flooding issues could develop. The ground in many areas has been dry, which can actually cause heavy rain to run off quickly at first rather than soak in. Low-lying areas, poor drainage spots, and small creeks and streams will be the most likely places to see water rise.
Drivers should be especially careful during heavier downpours. Never drive through flooded roadways, as it only takes a small amount of moving water to sweep a vehicle away. When in doubt, turn around and find another route.
Cooler Weekend Temperatures
The clouds and rain will also bring some relief from the recent heat. Heat levels will drop over the weekend, with highs mostly in the low to mid 80s for most places. That is a noticeable change from the near 90-degree afternoons earlier in the week, and the added cloud cover will make it feel even more comfortable at times.
Rain Across the Southeast
Alabama will not be the only state getting soaked. The 7-day rainfall outlook shows widespread rain across the Southeast, including Mississippi, Louisiana, and Georgia. Parts of northern Georgia could see totals near 4 to 5 inches, while areas along the Louisiana and Mississippi Gulf Coast could see some of the highest totals, with 5 to 7 inches possible in spots.
How to Prepare for the Weekend
Residents can take a few simple steps before the rain arrives:
Clean out gutters and downspouts so water can drain properly. Clear leaves and debris from storm drains near homes. Secure outdoor furniture and decorations. Keep umbrellas and rain gear handy for weekend plans. Check the forecast before traveling to away football games or weekend events.
Good News for Dry Areas
After weeks of limited rainfall, this weekend’s rain could make a real difference for lawns, gardens, farms, ponds, and forests across Alabama. A soaking rain of this size could help ease dry conditions and give plants a much-needed boost heading into October.
Cooler Air on the Way Next Week
Behind the slow-moving front, another push of cooler and drier fall air is expected to settle into Alabama next week, bringing more comfortable temperatures and lower humidity once the rain moves out.
For more Alabama weather updates and rainfall forecasts, stay with bchssreport.com.