Alabama begins the day with frosty air biting at exposed skin as thermometers hover near freezing. Windshields feel cold to the touch, and shaded pavement stays slick in spots. Winter is making itself known early.
According to the National Weather Service in Huntsville, temperatures sit near 32 degrees this morning. While widespread ice is not expected, bridges and overpasses may briefly slick up. Drivers should slow down and allow extra braking distance during early travel.
Clouds increase through the day as temperatures recover into the mid-50s. Conditions stay dry for now, but changes arrive quickly. By Thursday, showers become likely across North Alabama. Rain may turn steady at times, lowering visibility and slowing travel through the afternoon. Keep headlights on and plan extra time if commuting.
To be fair, Thursday still feels mild. Highs reach near 60 degrees. That warmth does not last long. As rain exits Thursday night, colder air sweeps in behind the system. Temperatures fall into the mid-30s by Friday morning, raising renewed freeze concerns.
Friday turns sunny but noticeably cooler. Highs top out near the upper 40s, with a crisp feel in the air. Any leftover moisture could refreeze early, especially in shaded areas. Use caution on neighborhood roads and parking lots.
Friday night remains cold with lows near freezing once again. That sets the tone for the weekend. Saturday rebounds nicely with sunshine and highs near 59. Roads dry out and travel improves. Sunday turns milder still, with highs near 61 and a small chance of showers later in the day.
Looking ahead, meteorologists continue tracking stronger winter systems north of Alabama. While snow stays unlikely here, the pattern supports colder swings as Christmas travel ramps up.
Five-Day Outlook (Huntsville, AL):
• Thursday: Showers, high near 60
• Friday: Sunny, cooler, high near 47
• Saturday: Sunny, high near 59
• Sunday: Slight rain chance, high near 61
• Monday: Partly sunny, high near 61
