Rain returns to Central Alabama for Halloween

Rain amounts exceeding one inch are increasingly likely across the region this weekend. The dry spell that has held firm for several days will end as a weather system moves through Central Alabama. Forecasters indicate that scattered showers may appear during the daytime on Saturday.

The timing of the rain raises concerns for local events. Meteorologists noted that a passing shower or light sprinkles cannot be ruled out during the Magic City Classic Parade. Steadier rain is expected to begin in West Alabama around 7 or 8 p.m. on Saturday. This precipitation will then spread north and east overnight and into Sunday.

Residents in West Alabama should plan for wet conditions during the evening. The shift in weather follows a period of stable conditions. Overnight lows on Tuesday night hovered mostly in the 40s. Wednesday brings ample sunshine with highs in the 70s and easterly winds between 5 and 10 mph.

Thursday and Friday will feature partly to mostly sunny skies. Mornings will be chilly, while daytime temperatures reach the 70s. This pattern persists until the weekend system arrives. The arrival of the storm will leave the area in a milder air mass through Monday and Tuesday, with a few scattered showers possible.

A cold front is approaching for the middle of next week. This front brings another round of rain and the possibility of storms. Guidance has shifted the greater chance for rain past Election Day and into next Wednesday. Meteorologists are monitoring the setup for the potential of stronger storms during this time.

Sunday also marks the end of Daylight Saving Time. Residents will turn their clocks back one hour. It is a recommended time to check batteries in alert devices, including NOAA Weather Radios, smoke alarms, and carbon monoxide detectors. The weather pattern is shifting, with increased probabilities for rainfall this weekend and another chance for wet weather next week.