Rain Expected, Snow Possible In Alabama Thursday

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Although dry weather continues Wednesday throughout Alabama, Thursday is expected to bring rain to most of the state and the possibility of snow to some parts of North Alabama.

The National Weather Service has defined a marginal risk (level 1 out of 5) of severe storms near the Gulf Coast, for southern Mobile and Baldwin counties and the Florida Panhandle. A few storms there could produce gusty winds Thursday afternoon and evening, which will likely affect the Birmingham area as well.

"A cold-core upper low will swing through north Alabama, and we know these can bring surprises," meteorologist James Spann said Wednesday. "With dynamic cooling in play, there is a chance the rain could mix with or change to snow over some of the northern counties of Alabama Thursday night."

Spann said the best chance of seeing some snow is along and north of U.S. 278, north of a line from Hamilton to Cullman to Gadsden. "Where heavier snow showers form under the upper low, the ground could become white in spots, but at the moment we are not expecting any major accumulation or meaningful impact," Spann said. "Of course, we will watch model trends closely along with developments to the west."

Friday, skies will be cloudy and the air will be cold. "Some lingering light rain is possible during the morning, maybe even a few snow flurries," Spann said. "Temperatures will struggle to reach the low to mid 40s, and for most of the state the clearing will hold off until Friday night."