Tracking tropical developments in the Gulf this week

MONTGOMERY, Alabama (WSFA) – More heat and humidity are expected later Tuesday. The weather pattern changes mid to late week as we track two systems. The first is a cold front that will increase rain and storm chances on Wednesday, followed by potential Tropical Cyclone Nine, which will increase wind and rain potential across parts of Alabama on Thursday and Friday.

It may be officially fall, but temperatures are stuck in summer. Highs Tuesday afternoon will rise to 35 to 40 degrees with a mix of sun and clouds. Humidity will be noticeable and there is also the chance of an isolated shower or storm. Winds will be from the south-southwest at around 5 to 10 mph. Tonight, the chance of rain increases, with lows between 18 and 21 degrees, with plenty of clouds.

A front will move into the region on Wednesday and linger there. This front, along with tropical moisture, will increase rain and storm chances across the region. Highs will only reach 27 degrees, with lots of clouds. Winds will be from the southeast at about 8 to 10 mph, and lows will be around 21 degrees, with showers likely.

From Thursday into Thursday night, our weather pattern will be influenced by what will become Helene. According to the latest track from the National Hurricane Center, the hurricane is expected to move into the Gulf of Mexico by Wednesday and head toward Florida's Big Bend late Thursday night.

Check out the latest live and local weather data below, streamed on WSFA Weather Now! Please note that this stream does not contain live severe weather coverage, only data on the latest weather conditions.

Parts of the “cone of concern” are highlighted in eastern Alabama with possible impacts from future Hurricane Helene. Expect waves of showers and storms as the likely hurricane moves ashore on Florida's Gulf Coast late Thursday.

The greatest threat for wind and heavy tropical rains will be along I-65 and farther east on Thursday. Rain and wind from the tropical system could occur anywhere in Alabama, however, with a greater chance in the eastern half of the state.

The forecast track for Helene will continue to change as this system moves quickly from now through Thursday. Check with the First Alert Weather team for the latest adjustments and potential hazards as we move closer to landfall.

The tropical system will quickly move north of the area through Friday and into the weekend, meaning rainfall amounts will decrease significantly by Friday night and into Saturday and Sunday. That means weekend plans will not be completely dry, but better than what we're expecting for Thursday.

From Friday to Sunday, sun and clouds are expected, with highs in the afternoon around 27 °C, light breezes, a low chance of rain of around 20% and lows at night around 15 °C.

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