MOBILE, Ala. — Evening thunderstorms are expected to weaken across the central Gulf Coast, but the oppressive heat and humidity that have defined recent days show no sign of easing.
After showers and storms clear out overnight, forecasters expect a quieter but muggy night. Overnight lows will settle in the upper 70s, keeping conditions feeling sticky well after sunset.
Thursday: Dangerous heat with afternoon storms possible
Thursday brings more of the same combination of heat and humidity. Highs are expected to reach the mid-90s, but the bigger concern is the heat index, which could climb to around 109 degrees. That level of heat can be dangerous for anyone spending extended time outdoors.
There is also a 30% chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms during the day. While most of the area is likely to stay dry, any storms that do form could be strong.
Friday: Slightly higher rain chances
Friday looks similar to Thursday, with temperatures in the mid-90s and a 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms as a front approaches the region. The heat index will remain elevated, though slightly lower than the day before.
Weekend: Drier with a bit of relief
The weekend brings welcome news: a break from the daily storm threat. Saturday and Sunday should see very low rain chances, giving the area a reprieve from the scattered evening storms that have been popping up recently.
Highs will still reach the mid-90s, but slightly lower humidity should make the heat index more manageable, dropping to around 105 degrees — still hot, but an improvement over earlier in the week.
Early next week: Above-normal heat continues
Typical August conditions are expected to continue into early next week, with above-normal temperatures and spotty showers and storms returning to the forecast.
Beach conditions
Rip current chances have been moderate in recent days due to westerly winds, but those chances are expected to decrease, especially by Friday and through the weekend. Even along the Florida Panhandle, where surf conditions have been more aggressive, conditions should improve.