As July progresses, Alabama is experiencing typical late summer weather with temperatures reaching the low 90s. This afternoon and evening, scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected as increasing instability from daytime heating fuels these weather events. Although rain will likely diminish after sunset, residents should be prepared for heavy rainfall and dangerous lightning associated with any storms.
On July 25th, Birmingham’s historical weather data shows an average high of 91°F with a low of 73°F. The records include a scorching high of 106°F set in 1952 and a low of 60°F recorded in 2019. Typically, Birmingham sees about 0.18 inches of precipitation on this date, with a record maximum of 1.49 inches established in 1922.
Meanwhile, hazardous heat conditions extend throughout the Mid-South and Mid-Mississippi Valley, with similar heat anticipated to reach the Northeast today. Flash flooding risks due to heavy rainfall are forecasted in areas from northeast Kansas to much of Indiana. Strong to severe thunderstorms may develop in parts of New England, northern Mid-Atlantic, and North Dakota.
Looking ahead, Alabama is poised for a prolonged heatwave with temperatures projected in the mid to upper 90s over the next week. The weekend will see a slight dip in rain chances, but an increase in temperatures will bring heat index values into the potentially dangerous range, prompting advisories likely starting Sunday. Extreme Heat Warnings may also be issued if calculations suggest heat indices could surpass 110°F.
In the tropics, there is currently a low-pressure system about 100 miles off southwestern Louisiana, bringing disorganized showers and thunderstorms. It is moving west-northwest toward the Texas coast but has a limited development window, posing a low 10 percent chance of further formation. Regardless of its development, the northwestern Gulf Coast should prepare for heavy rainfall in the coming days.
Globally, temperature extremes include a staggering 124.7°F recorded in Omidieh, Iran, while Vostok, Antarctica, saw the lowest temperature at -99.2°F. Within the contiguous U.S., the highest temperature was noted at 110°F in Tolleson, Arizona, and the coolest was 23°F in Peter Sinks, Utah.
As the summer days heat up, residents are encouraged to stay aware of weather updates and to take appropriate precautions against heat and storms. While the heat can be intense, Alabama is no stranger to summer weather, and the community can find ways to stay safe and cool during these high temperatures.