Light rain is falling across Birmingham early Wednesday, with temperatures near 70 degrees and a much wetter, stormier stretch ahead. Showers will hang around through the morning before thunderstorms become more likely this afternoon, followed by a noticeable cooldown heading into the weekend.
Rain Turns To Storms By Afternoon
The National Weather Service expects rain showers before noon, then showers and thunderstorms through the afternoon. Birmingham could reach about 76 degrees, with south winds between 5 and 15 mph.
Rain is in the forecast. A Level 1 of 5 marginal severe-weather risk is posted for eastern portions of Alabama, where damaging winds and an isolated tornado are the main concerns; heavy downpours could also cause localized flooding. Drivers should take it slow on slick roads and never attempt to cross water-covered pavement.
The storm setup was already flagged in Hoodline's Tuesday forecast, and Wednesday's outlook now calls for rain and includes a chance of thunderstorms Wednesday afternoon. There are currently no watches, warnings or advisories listed for Birmingham.
Thursday Brings A Brief Reprieve
Storm chances drop sharply Wednesday night, with only a slight chance of showers before midnight and a low near 57 degrees. Thursday should turn mostly sunny with a high around 74 and a 10 percent chance of rain, while Friday is expected to be sunny and similarly warm.
Weekend Turns Cooler
The bigger change arrives Saturday, when highs fall to around 65 under mostly sunny skies. Overnight lows could reach about 40 degrees Saturday night and again Sunday night, and forecasters say frost may become possible in parts of the area as early as Saturday night.
Saturday through Monday should be mostly sunny or partly cloudy, with cooler temperatures continuing into early next week. After Wednesday's soggy start, Birmingham's weekend forecast is shaping up to be much better suited to jackets and outdoor plans.
