Freezing overnight temperatures across Central Alabama are expected to mark New Year’s Eve, followed by a warmer and sunny New Year’s Day, according to the National Weather Service in Birmingham.
Forecast graphics from weather.gov show overnight lows tonight dropping into the upper 20s to lower 30s, including near 29–32 degrees in Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Jasper, Gadsden, Montgomery, and Anniston. Conditions are expected to remain clear, with west to southwest winds around 5 mph, allowing temperatures to fall quickly after sunset.
According to the National Weather Service Birmingham office, today will bring sunny skies with highs in the upper 40s to mid-50s, before temperatures dip overnight. The cold start will be noticeable for New Year’s Eve celebrations, particularly during late-night outdoor events and early New Year’s Day travel.
By New Year’s Day (Thursday), temperatures are forecast to rebound, with afternoon highs reaching the mid-50s to lower 60s across much of Central Alabama. Cities including Tuscaloosa, Demopolis, Montgomery, and Troy are expected to approach 60 degrees, while northern areas such as Hamilton and Gadsden remain slightly cooler in the upper 50s. Skies will be mostly sunny, with light west to southwest winds near 5 mph.
No precipitation is expected through the holiday period, and forecast maps indicate a 0% chance of rain across the region.
The National Weather Service noted in its early morning update that while the year will end with a cold start, a warming trend will continue into the latter half of the week, bringing more seasonable conditions after the holiday.
For commuters, students, and late-night revelers, the sharp temperature drop tonight may impact comfort during overnight events and early morning outings, especially on untreated bridges and elevated roadways.
