How much rain could Alabama get this week? Chances on the rise

Alabama is bracing for an increase in rain chances throughout the week. According to the National Weather Service, while most of the state will see some precipitation, it will likely fall short of making a significant impact on the ongoing drought conditions.

Drought Status Remains Concerning

The situation is particularly dire in south Alabama, which is currently enduring the most severe drought conditions and is forecasted to receive the least amount of rainfall over the coming days. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor report released this past Thursday, parts of the state remain in Level 3 out of 4 drought conditions, with the remainder of Alabama categorized as either in drought or on the verge of one.

Rainfall Forecast

The weather service outlook suggests that small areas in northern Alabama could receive up to 1.5 inches of rain over the next six days, with much of the northern region expected to see between a half-inch and an inch through Saturday. Conversely, south Alabama is looking at a much drier forecast, with estimates ranging from a few hundredths of an inch up to a half-inch.

What to Expect This Week

A cold front is expected to move into the region by midweek and stall. Forecasters anticipate a series of impulses moving over the area through the end of the week, which should trigger scattered afternoon and evening showers and storms.

While the Storm Prediction Center has placed parts of Alabama under a Level 1 out of 5 risk for severe weather today and Tuesday, the weather service currently views the threat of severe storms as low. Still, there is a very slight possibility for a stronger storm or two early in the week.

Looking Ahead

There is a brighter outlook for the end of the month. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center projects an elevated probability of above-average rainfall for the entire state of Alabama from May 24-30. During that window, the forecast shows a 40-50 percent probability for above-average precipitation across the state, according to 205focus.com reporting on the latest weather data.