James Spann: rain returns Thursday/warmer through midweek

SUNNY, COLD DECEMBER DAY: With a cloudless sky temperatures are in the 40s across most of Alabama this afternoon. Tonight will be clear and cold, but not as cold as last night. Most places will see a low in the 20s, and another freeze is possible for the Gulf Coast early tomorrow morning.

A warming trend resumes tomorrow; with a mostly sunny sky temperatures rise into the 50s and low 60s. Afternoon temperatures reach the 60s statewide by Thursday.

Clouds will increase Wednesday night, and rain will move into the state Thursday and Thursday night ahead of a cold front. Rain amounts will be generally 1/2 inch or less.

Friday will be mostly sunny and colder with an afternoon high in the 45-55 degree range.

THE ALABAMA WEEKEND: Saturday will be dry and pleasant with a high between 55 and 65 degrees. Moisture levels rise Sunday, and a few scattered showers are possible during the day with a high in the 60s.

CHRISTMAS WEEK: Global models continue to suggest much of the contiguous U.S. will experience above average temperatures; for Alabama on most days highs will be in the 60s and lows in the 40s and low 50s. For now not seeing any major rain event through the week, although there could be a day or two with scattered showers. See the video briefing for maps, graphics, and more details.

FOOTBALL WEATHER: Alabama will be in Norman to take on Oklahoma in the first round of the college football playoffs (7 p.m. kickoff). The sky will be clear with temperatures falling from the mid 50s at kickoff, to near 50 by the final whistle. It will be a bit breezy with a south wind averaging 10-20 mph.

ON THIS DATE IN 1992: Cyclone John hit the sparsely populated northwest coast of Australia with winds gusting to 185 mph. John was the strongest cyclone to hit Australia in over 100 years.

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