Scott Martin: Major heat wave ahead for Alabama

THE WEEKEND: Today brings the start of a very hot, humid pattern across Alabama. With highs in the 90s and dewpoints in the low to mid 70s, it’s going to feel more like 100 to 107 degrees in some spots. A heat advisory is in effect from noon to 7 p.m. for parts of the state, especially across western counties. A few isolated storms may pop up in the afternoon, but coverage will be low. Overnight lows won’t provide much relief, dropping only into the low to mid 70s. Highs will range from the upper 80s to mid 90s.

Sunday’s forecast looks similar, with intense heat and limited storm activity. Afternoon highs will climb into the lower to mid 90s, and it will feel closer to 105 degrees in some locations. Another heat advisory may be needed if conditions remain on track. Afternoon storms will be few and far between, and overnight lows will again stay muggy in the 70s. Highs will reach the lower to mid 90s.

THE WORK WEEK: Monday brings even more heat. High pressure remains firmly in control, locking in a tropical air mass with high humidity and little cloud cover. The heat index will again push 105 degrees in many areas, and the air will feel heavy and uncomfortable throughout the day. Isolated storms are possible, but most locations will stay dry. Highs will hold in the lower to mid 90s.

Tuesday kicks off the peak of the heat wave. Forecast models show strong upper-level ridging strengthening over the Southeast, pushing high temperatures and heat indices well into dangerous territory. We’re looking at highs in the mid 90s, with the heat index topping 105 degrees in many areas — possibly higher.

Wednesday will likely be one of the hottest days of the year so far. The ridge overhead may reach near-record strength, suppressing any real chance for widespread showers and allowing heat to build unchecked. Urban areas may hit the extreme heat risk category, with heat indices exceeding 105-110 degrees in places. Highs will soar into the mid to upper 90s.

Thursday doesn’t bring much relief. The heat dome remains in place, and storm chances stay very low under strong subsidence aloft. Dewpoints in the 70s combined with temperatures in the mid to upper 90s will again create a heat index over 105 degrees. It’s critical to practice heat safety during stretches like this. Highs will be in the mid to upper 90s.

Friday may bring a slight step back from peak heat, but don’t expect much change. The heat index should still exceed 100 degrees in many areas, especially in west Alabama. Some models hint at a few more isolated storms, but the overall trend remains hot and dry. Highs will range from the lower to mid 90s.

TROPICS: For the North Atlantic, Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, tropical cyclone formation is not expected during the next seven days.

For more weather news and information from James Spann, Scott Martin and other members of the James Spann team, visit AlabamaWx.