Heat arriving in Alabama just before summer begins

The official start to summer is June 20 but in the week leading up to the solstice, we will be feeling the heat here in Alabama.

All across the state, temperatures are expected to rise into the high 90s this weekend with some heat indices reaching triple digits Saturday. Here’s a quick look at the forecasted highs for some areas in the state.

• Birmingham: Friday — 95 | Saturday — 98 | Sunday — 97
• Huntsville: Friday — 96 | Saturday — 97 | Sunday — 97
• Mobile: Friday — 94 | Saturday — 97 | Sunday — 90
• Montgomery: Friday — 96 | Saturday — 99 | Sunday — 97
• Tuscaloosa: Friday — 96 | Saturday — 98 | Sunday — 98

Keep reading to find out more about how this weekend’s forecast compares to the average temperatures this time of year + learn more about how to be prepared for the heat.

Hot Saturday

Saturday is expected to be the hottest day so far this year in every area of the state. Highs are expected to reach at least 95 for almost everybody.

The National Weather Service (NWS) says the average high for the middle of June across the state is around 88 degrees. Everyone is expected to be above that average this weekend.

Here’s a list at some of the record highs for June 15 according to the NWS:

• Troy: 103 (1963)
• Huntsville: 101 (1936)
• Fairhope: 100 (1952)
• Montgomery: 100 (2022)
• Wetumpka: 100 (1914)
• Birmingham: 98 (2011)
• Gadsden: 97 (2011)

While the state’s record for hottest June 15 on record may seem safe, it’s likely some cities could be setting new record highs for Saturday’s date.

How to prepare for the heat

It may be too hot for you to want to do anything outside this weekend and I can’t blame you. But if you are getting outdoors, there are a few things to remember when dealing with the heat.

The Alabama Department of Public Health lists three major heat-related illnesses to look out for:

• Heat cramps — usually in the abdomen, arms or legs; try to rest and drink water!
• Heat exhaustion — Causes heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, nausea
• Heat stroke — Signs are lack of sweat, extremely high body temperature, rapid pulse, confusion + fainting

The ADPH says to follow these guidelines to avoid heat-related illnesses:

• Drink more fluids, and avoid beverages containing alcohol or caffeine
• When temperatures are extreme, stay indoors, ideally in an air-conditioned place
• Take a cool shower or bath, and reduce or eliminate strenuous activities during the hottest time of the day
• Protect yourself from the sun with a wide-brimmed hat, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and use a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher
• Never leave pets or people in a parked vehicle

June is Great Outdoors Month! What’s your favorite way to enjoy Alabama’s natural beauty? Head over to our LinkedIn page to vote in our poll.