Birmingham, Ala. – Central Alabama is heading into another classic midsummer week with increasing heat, high humidity and daily opportunities for scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms. While Tropical Depression Two is expected to strengthen over the Gulf, forecasters say the system is not expected to bring significant impacts to central Alabama.
According to the National Weather Service in Birmingham, Tropical Depression Two is forecast to gradually intensify and likely become Tropical Storm Bertha while drifting north and west across the Gulf through the week. Current projections keep the system far enough away that significant impacts are not forecast across central Alabama at this time.
Instead, the primary concern will be the combination of heat and humidity. Afternoon highs will climb into the low to mid-90s, with heat index values around 105 degrees during the hottest part of the day. The National Weather Service indicates a moderate heat risk, particularly for people without access to effective cooling or adequate hydration.
Communities including Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Anniston, Gadsden, Clanton, Montgomery and surrounding areas can expect a typical summertime pattern of isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms each afternoon and evening. While many locations will remain dry for much of the day, storms that develop could produce frequent lightning, brief heavy rainfall and gusty winds.
Residents are encouraged to limit strenuous outdoor activities during the afternoon, drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing and take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces. Anyone working outdoors should watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, while parents should never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
The unsettled summer pattern is expected to continue through the week, with daily thunderstorm coverage varying from day to day. Although Tropical Depression Two will be closely monitored, the greatest weather concerns for central Alabama remain the heat, humidity and scattered thunderstorms.
