Alabama residents can expect a dry and pleasant winter day today, with partly to mostly sunny skies and temperatures ranging from 60 to 65 degrees. However, clouds will move in tonight ahead of an approaching dynamic storm system.

The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued an "enhanced risk" (level 3/5) for severe thunderstorms in parts of East, Central, and Southeast Alabama tomorrow. Additionally, a "slight risk" (level 2/5) extends northwards to Winfield, Oneonta, and Gadsden, while a "marginal risk" (level 1/5) encompasses the northern third of the state.

Uncertainty remains regarding the northward extent of unstable air, but current projections suggest that the highest risk of severe storms will likely be along and south of I-20, primarily affecting the southern 2/3 of Alabama. The event is expected to unfold during the daytime, with the risk beginning around 9:00 a.m. for the western counties and potentially concluding by 4-5 p.m.

Storms developing tomorrow could produce strong, damaging straight-line winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes. There is even the possibility of a strong EF-2 or higher tornado occurring within the "enhanced risk" area. In addition, gradient winds unrelated to thunderstorms could gust up to 35-45 mph, prompting a wind advisory. Although not as intense as Monday night, some weakened trees and power outages may still occur.

Rainfall amounts during the event are expected to remain under one inch, mitigating the risk of flooding.

Looking ahead to the weekend, dry conditions are anticipated with cooler temperatures. Morning lows are forecasted to range from 23 to 32 degrees, while highs will reach the 40s for North Alabama and the 50s for the southern counties on both Saturday and Sunday.

A significant arctic blast is expected early next week, bringing the coldest air of the season to the Deep South. Global models indicate the potential for wintry precipitation over the northern half of Alabama on Monday night into Tuesday morning. However, it is still too early to provide specific details or ascertain any potential travel or other impacts. Following tomorrow's storm system, meteorologists will have a clearer understanding of Monday and Tuesday's weather and can provide a higher confidence forecast.

What is certain is that next week will be bitterly cold. Most of the state will experience below-freezing temperatures throughout Tuesday, with lows dropping to the range of 10-15 degrees over the northern half of Alabama by Wednesday morning. Even areas near I-10 can expect temperatures in the teens. This cold spell is reminiscent of the cold wave experienced in December 2022.

Historical data reveals that on this date in 1918, a powerful low-pressure system brought snow and frigid temperatures to Chattanooga, Little Rock, and Shreveport. Birmingham, Alabama, received an inch of snow. Furthermore, a devastating F3 tornado struck the town of Webb in far southeastern Alabama, causing extensive damage and tragically claiming the lives of one teacher and seven students.

Lastly, on this date in 2021, snowfall accumulated in Pickens, Lamar, Fayette, Walker, Marion, and Winston counties in West Alabama. Snow totals ranged from 1 to 2 inches, with isolated higher amounts of up to 3 inches reported in some areas.

As Alabama braves tomorrow's expected severe storms, residents are advised to stay informed about any weather updates and to take necessary precautions for their safety.