James Spann: Hard freeze tonight; more Arctic air invades the Deep South this weekend

HARD FREEZE: Tonight will be the coldest so far this winter season for Alabama. With a clear sky most North Alabama communities will drop into the 10-15 degree range; teens are likely to the Gulf Coast.

The weather will stay dry and cold tomorrow through Thursday with highs generally in the 40s, lows in the 20s. A weak surface low in the Gulf could bring some spotty light rain to South Alabama Friday, but for now it looks like the northern counties will stay dry. Friday’s high will remain in the 40s.

THE ALABAMA WEEKEND: Another blast of very cold air will roll into the state Friday night, putting the Deep South back in the deep freeze this weekend. Highs will be in the 20s over the northern half of the state Saturday, and lows will be in the 10-18 degrees for most of the state both Saturday and Sunday morning. The air will be very similar to what we have in place today. But the air will be dry and we expect a sunny sky both days.

NEXT WEEK: This point the weather looks quiet next week with a slow warming trend; afternoon highs reach the 50s over the southern two-thirds of the state by Wednesday. For now there is no sign of any new snow or ice issues for Alabama for the next seven to ten days. See the video briefing for maps, graphics, and more details.

ON THIS DATE IN 1974: An F3 tornado tore through Randolph County in East Alabama. The damage was initially in the Rock Stand area. A barn lost its roof, and trees were downed. In the Tin Shop community, two trailers were destroyed, and a house was damaged.

At the Highway community, two frame houses were destroyed. Nine-month-old Bartlett Baldwin was killed. His 6-year-old sister and father were injured. There was a total of 7 injuries.

For more weather news and information from James Spann and his team, visit the Alabama Weather Network.