News Summary
Birmingham has recorded 11.29 inches of rain this May, marking it as the second wettest May since 1895. The rainfall greatly exceeds the typical average, and nearby cities also report record rainfalls. While temperatures remain below average, a cold front may bring drier weather soon. However, warnings about potential thunderstorms and tropical moisture suggest that the unusual weather may continue.
Birmingham has recorded an unprecedented total of 11.29 inches of rain this May, marking it as the second wettest May on record since the area began keeping statistics in 1895. The rainfall has significantly exceeded Birmingham’s typical May average of 4.59 inches by a staggering 6.7 inches, demonstrating the unusual weather patterns seen across the region.
The National Weather Service in Birmingham has noted that there have been 20 rainy days thus far this month, contributing to the area’s uncommonly high totals. In a comparison, the earlier record for the rainiest May was established in 2003, when 17.22 inches fell, which led to significant flooding issues across the city. This year’s rainfall has not yet reached that level, but it signals a drastic departure from the norm.
Further compounding these issues, nearby Tuscaloosa has set a record as well, with May rainfall reaching 14.46 inches, making it the rainiest May on record for that city. Huntsville has also reported significant rainfall, with a notable total of 11.88 inches recorded back in May 1983, which remains the highest ever for that city, but 2025 is shaping up to be remarkable for many regions in Alabama.
Beyond rainfall, Birmingham’s temperatures have stayed below average during May. The city has not achieved a high temperature of 90 degrees for the first time in 11 years, highlighting the unusual climate patterns. As the next week approaches, forecasts indicate that temperatures are expected to return to the mid-80s, which, combined with high humidity, will contribute to a stifling atmosphere.
In terms of upcoming weather patterns, residents can anticipate a shift in conditions. A cold front is predicted to move through the area, bringing a reprieve from the rain as drier weather makes its way to Alabama this weekend. Saturday’s forecast includes mostly sunny skies, with morning low temperatures expected in the 50s and daytime highs near 80 degrees.
However, despite promising weather for the weekend, residents may still see smoke from Canadian wildfires creating hazy skies in Alabama. Additionally, the forecast for Sunday does suggest the possibility of isolated thunderstorms in northeastern counties, although the majority of Alabama is likely to remain dry.
As meteorologists continue to monitor weather conditions, another surge of moisture from the tropics is already on the radar. This gathering moisture may spur scattered thunderstorms by the end of next week, indicating that this unusually rainy May could extend into further inclement weather as the Atlantic Hurricane Season kicks off on June 1. Initial indicators have hinted at potential tropical development in either the Caribbean or southern Gulf later in the month.
Given the current stormy trends, caution is advised for residents regarding any developing thunderstorms. There are risks associated with these storms, including strong wind gusts and dangerous lightning, necessitating awareness and preparedness among the community as they navigate these unpredictable weather patterns this month.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Crash Involving VA Bus in Downtown Birmingham Injures Six
Tragic Passing of Former NYPD Police Commissioner
Birmingham Weather Update: Record Rainfall and Thunderstorms Ahead
Alabama Study Shows Fortified Homes Reduce Insurance Claims
Direct Flights from Houston to Gulf Shores Now Available
New Direct Flights from Houston to Gulf Shores Launch
Alabama Communities Observe Memorial Day with Ceremonies Honoring Fallen Veterans
Snowstorm Forces Birmingham Schools to Close or Switch to Virtual Learning
Severe Weather Alerts Issued for Alabama Over Memorial Day Weekend
Tragic Plane Crash in San Diego Linked to Fog and Airport Issues
Additional Resources
- Bham Now
- Wikipedia: Climate of Alabama
- AL.com Weather
- Google Search: Alabama weather May 2025
- WVTM 13
- Google Scholar: Alabama weather patterns
- The Bama Buzz
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
