Halloween Rain Forecast: Showers Possible for Trick-or-Treating, Inch of Rain Sunday, Storms Wednesday

MOBILE, Ala. — The Halloween weekend rain forecast for the Gulf Coast has turned wetter, with scattered showers possible during trick-or-treating Saturday evening and a better chance of steady rain Saturday night and Sunday. After a dry, quiet break Monday and Tuesday, including Election Day, another round of rain and possibly thunderstorms arrives Wednesday as a cold front moves through.

Earlier in the week, only a small chance of showers was in the forecast for Halloween. That chance has since grown, and families planning outdoor activities this weekend should have a backup plan ready.

Friday: dry with increasing clouds

Friday should stay mostly dry, although clouds will build through the day ahead of the next weather system. Afternoon highs will climb into the low 80s, warm for the end of October, and Friday night will stay mild as the system approaches.

Friday looks like the last fully dry day before rain chances rise over the weekend, making it the best day for any outdoor Halloween events, fall festivals or yard decorating that can be moved up.

Saturday and Halloween night: scattered showers possible

Scattered showers will become possible during the day Saturday, with rain chances near 40% by the afternoon. That chance continues into the evening hours, when most trick-or-treating takes place.

Temperatures will run a little warmer than normal for this time of year, with readings in the low 70s. Not everyone will see rain, but families should keep an eye on the radar and have an indoor alternative in mind, such as a trunk-or-treat under a covered pavilion or a party at home, in case showers move through during trick-or-treating hours.

Saturday night and Sunday: the wettest stretch

Rain chances jump to about 60% Saturday night, and Sunday looks like the wettest day of the weekend. Around an inch of rain is forecast for the area Sunday, falling mainly as showers.

That is enough rain to create soggy conditions and disrupt outdoor plans, so anyone with an outdoor event, yard work or a tailgate planned Sunday would be wise to line up an indoor Plan B.

Monday, Tuesday and Election Day: dry and pleasant

The weather turns quiet again Monday and Tuesday as the system moves away from the region. Both days should be dry, with temperatures holding in the upper 70s.

Tuesday is Election Day, and the forecast looks dry for voters heading to the polls. Anyone who has been putting off outdoor chores after the weekend rain should find good conditions early in the week.

Wednesday: rain and possible thunderstorms

The next significant rain chance arrives Wednesday. Rain chances climb to about 70% as a front pushes through the area, and thunderstorms will be possible.

It is still too early to say whether any of those storms could become severe. Residents should check updated forecasts early next week as the timing and strength of the front become clearer.

Seven-day outlook

• Friday: Mostly dry, increasing clouds, highs in the low 80s
• Saturday (Halloween): Scattered showers possible, about 40% by afternoon and evening, highs in the low 70s
• Saturday night: Rain chances near 60%
• Sunday: Showers likely, around an inch of rain possible
• Monday: Dry and mild, upper 70s
• Tuesday (Election Day): Dry, upper 70s
• Wednesday: Rain likely, about 70%, with thunderstorms possible as a front moves through

Through the period, temperatures will remain mild, generally in the upper 70s, with the two main rain events being the Halloween weekend showers and Wednesday’s front.

Trick-or-treating in wet weather

If showers develop Saturday evening, a few precautions can help keep children safe:

• Choose costumes that are bright or add reflective tape, since rain and clouds reduce visibility for drivers.
• Carry flashlights or glow sticks, and consider clear or light-colored rain ponchos that do not hide costumes.
• Wear shoes with good traction, as wet sidewalks, steps and porches can be slippery.
• Drivers should slow down in neighborhoods, turn on headlights and watch for children crossing between parked cars.
• Stay off flooded streets and away from storm drains and ditches, which can fill quickly during heavier showers.

Getting ready at home

A few simple steps before the weekend can limit headaches once the rain arrives:

• Clear leaves and debris from gutters, downspouts and yard drains so water can flow away from the house.
• Secure or bring in lightweight Halloween decorations, inflatables and lawn furniture ahead of Wednesday’s front, when gusty winds can accompany thunderstorms.
• Move electrical cords for outdoor lighting off the ground and away from standing water.
• Have a way to receive weather alerts, such as a weather radio or alerts on a mobile phone, in case storms Wednesday turn stronger than expected.

Driving in the rain

With an inch of rain possible Sunday and a front on Wednesday, motorists should allow extra following distance and reduce speed on wet roads. Turn on headlights when wipers are in use, and never try to drive through water covering a roadway. Just a few inches of moving water can cause a vehicle to lose traction.

Residents are encouraged to check back for forecast updates through the weekend and ahead of Wednesday’s front, especially for any changes in the potential for strong storms.