Thinking about Memorial Day weekend in Alabama? It’s natural to wonder what the weather will do. Most years, you’ll get warm afternoons—upper 70s to mid-80s—mild mornings, and maybe a quick shower or storm.
Alabama’s humid subtropical climate means late May brings the first real taste of summer. It can feel pretty nice compared to the sticky heat of July or August.
Weather isn’t the same everywhere in the state. Up north in Huntsville, you’ll probably feel a little cooler and less humid air. Down south near Mobile, it’s warmer and feels almost tropical.
Rain happens a lot in late May, but it’s usually just quick bursts. Most of the time, you can sneak in plenty of outdoor fun between the showers.
Knowing these patterns helps you pack for both sunshine and a surprise sprinkle. With the right mindset, you’ll enjoy cookouts, lake days, or beach trips without the weather catching you off guard.
Typical Memorial Day Weather in Alabama
Expect warm afternoons, mild mornings, and a mix of sun with a shot at some rain. The Gulf Coast feels different than northern Alabama, so your location matters.
Average Temperatures During Memorial Day
By late May, Alabama really leans into summer warmth. Up north, in spots like Huntsville, afternoons usually land between the upper 70s and mid-80s°F.
In Birmingham and Montgomery, you’ll see low to upper 80s°F. Down by the Gulf, Mobile often hits the mid to upper 80s°F.
Mornings are much easier on you. Lows settle in the 50s and 60s°F up north, while central and southern Alabama wake up to the 60s and low 70s°F.
These numbers are pretty close to normal. Sometimes, a weak front brings in drier air and cooler mornings, but afternoons still feel warm. If you’re out early, mornings will probably feel just about perfect.
Humidity and Comfort Levels
Humidity really shapes how the weather feels. By Memorial Day, Alabama air gets pretty humid, especially in the middle and southern parts of the state. Dew points often climb into the 60s°F, making afternoons feel sticky.
Some years, though, you might luck out with drier air. That makes mornings crisp and afternoons less muggy. Northern Alabama usually gets those breaks more than the Gulf Coast, where Gulf moisture keeps things heavy.
If you’re planning anything outside, just count on at least moderate humidity. Shade, light clothes, and water go a long way when the sun’s out.
Dry Weather Patterns
Memorial Day sometimes brings a stretch of dry, calm weather. High pressure can settle in over the Southeast, so you might get a run of sunny days and low rain chances.
You’ll notice the dry weather most during the day. Sunshine dominates, and nights are calm with gentle breezes.
These conditions make travel and outdoor get-togethers a lot easier. Still, dry spells don’t always stick around. If a weak front rolls through, you might wake up to cooler air, but most of the weekend stays rain-free.
Spotty Showers and Rainfall Chances
Even when it’s mostly dry, Memorial Day in Alabama can still surprise you with spotty showers. Afternoon heat and leftover Gulf moisture sometimes spark quick rain, especially in the south.
Showers are usually scattered. One area might get a quick downpour while another stays dry. Usually, rain amounts stay light, and storms fade after sunset.
If you’re near the Gulf Coast, you’ll see a slightly higher chance for showers than up north. Rain doesn’t usually last long, so most outdoor plans can pick up right after a short delay.
Regional Weather Variations Across Alabama
Memorial Day weather really depends on where you are. The northern mountains, central plains, and southern Gulf Coast each bring their own flavor—different temperatures, rain chances, and storm patterns.
Northern Alabama Climate Differences
Northern Alabama usually runs a bit cooler than the rest of the state. Highs tend to stay in the upper 70s or low 80s °F, and nighttime lows can drop into the upper 50s or low 60s.
That makes mornings and evenings great for outdoor plans. Rain can pop up, but storms are mostly scattered. Afternoon thunderstorms sometimes show up when warm, moist air from the south bumps into cooler air from the hills.
These storms don’t stick around long but can bring heavy rain and gusty winds. Humidity is lower here, so the heat doesn’t feel as intense. If you’re hiking or camping, expect cooler breezes and maybe some morning fog.
Central Alabama Weather Overview
Central Alabama sits between the cooler north and humid south, so it runs a little warmer. Highs usually reach the low to mid-80s °F, and lows stay in the low to mid-60s.
Afternoons can feel especially warm when humidity settles in. Showers or storms pop up in the late afternoon, but they usually move through quickly.
You might get brief downpours and lightning. If you’re hosting a cookout or gathering, keep an eye on the sky after lunch.
Humidity is noticeable but not as thick as the coast. Evenings often cool down enough for comfortable time outside.
Southern Alabama and Gulf Coast Conditions
Southern Alabama and the Gulf Coast crank up the heat and humidity around Memorial Day. Highs often reach the upper 80s °F, and lows stick to the upper 60s or low 70s.
Humidity makes it feel even hotter, especially in the afternoon. Showers and storms show up more often here.
The Gulf sends in plenty of moisture, so daily storms develop, mainly in the afternoon and evening. These storms don’t usually last long, but they can get intense, with heavy rain and strong winds.
If you’re headed to the beach, expect warm water and high humidity. Sea breezes help a little, but they can also spark thunderstorms both inland and along the coast.
Watch out for rip currents and rough surf when offshore weather systems stir things up.
Weather Patterns Leading Up to Memorial Day
Late May in Alabama usually means a shift to summer weather. You’ll notice warmer days and a mix of sunny spells with scattered rain.
Late May Temperature Trends
By the back half of May, daytime highs in most of Alabama reach the mid-80s°F. Some places even push into the upper 80s.
Nights cool off into the mid-60s°F, which makes mornings and evenings feel nice. The warming trend doesn’t stop, and cold snaps are rare this late.
Northern Alabama might run a little cooler than the south, where the Gulf adds more humidity and warmth. Sometimes, the heat shows up early, with a few days in the low 90s°F. Those spikes don’t last long, though.
So, for planning? Count on warm afternoons, mild nights, and a rise in humidity. That combo sets up both outdoor fun and the chance for afternoon storms.
Pre-Holiday Rainfall Averages
Rain in late May is hit or miss, but you should expect occasional showers or storms. Most places pick up about 4 to 5 inches of rain during the month, with some of that falling right before Memorial Day.
Storms are usually quick but can be heavy, especially in central and southern Alabama. Daytime heat and high humidity often trigger these pop-up events.
You’ll get some dry stretches, but they don’t always last. Afternoon storms usually break up long sunny runs.
If you’re traveling or hosting something outside, expect short rain delays, not all-day washouts. The Gulf’s influence makes scattered showers pretty common, but mornings often stay clear before clouds build up.
Historical Weather Events on Memorial Day
Memorial Day in Alabama tends to bring warm air and sometimes unstable weather. Some years have had record heat, while others surprised everyone with cool mornings.
Notable Storms and Severe Weather
Spring storms can still be active around Memorial Day. Severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, and even tornadoes have hit the state during the holiday.
Alabama’s location—close to Gulf moisture and unstable air—means storms form fast. Late May has seen damaging winds and big hail in central and northern areas.
These storms sometimes mess up outdoor plans and travel. Down south, tropical moisture can dump heavy rain, causing localized flooding.
Records show severe weather is much more likely than snow or cold at this time of year. Not every Memorial Day brings storms, but it’s smart to be ready, especially if you’re heading outside.
Common storm impacts:
- Power outages from downed trees
- Flash flooding in low spots
- Delays or cancellations for outdoor events
Unusual Temperature Records
Alabama’s Memorial Day temperatures have swung all over the place. Some years, highs jump into the 90s, making things feel like full-on summer.
Other years, mornings have dipped into the 40s, especially up north. Heat records usually show up in the southern part of the state, while the north and higher spots get the cooler numbers.
Birmingham and Montgomery have both seen Memorial Day highs in the low 90s. Huntsville has had mornings in the upper 40s during rare cool spells.
These wild swings show just how unpredictable late May can be. If you’re planning something outdoors, prepare for both heat and the chance of a chilly morning. Layering up and staying hydrated helps you handle whatever shows up.
Preparing for Memorial Day Weather in Alabama
Most years, temperatures climb into the 80s—sometimes near 90—but mornings can start in the 50s or 60s. You might run into a quick shower or an afternoon storm, so a little planning helps you enjoy the holiday without any big weather surprises.
Tips for Outdoor Activities
Try to plan your outdoor time for the warmest parts of the day. Late mornings and early afternoons are usually sunny, but late afternoons can bring pop-up showers or storms, especially in central and north Alabama.
If you’re grilling, hiking, or heading to a parade, check the forecast before you leave. Afternoon storms don’t usually last long, but they can bring gusty winds and heavy rain.
Shade and water are your friends in the May heat. Even when humidity drops, standing in the sun too long can wear you out. Grab a hat, sunglasses, and some water, especially if you’re at a park or lake.
For beach trips along the Gulf Coast, expect mostly stable weather, but keep an eye out for passing showers. Lightning safety really matters—if you hear thunder, head inside until the storm moves on.
What to Pack for Changing Conditions
A smart packing list really helps you deal with Memorial Day’s unpredictable weather. Start with light, breathable clothing for those warm afternoons.
Still, you’ll want to toss in a light jacket or sweater for the cooler mornings.
Bring along a small umbrella or a compact rain jacket. Spotty showers happen pretty often, and you don’t want to get caught off guard by a sudden downpour.
Think about your footwear, too. Comfortable walking shoes make sense for festivals or parades. Sandals work for the beach, but you should probably skip open shoes if you plan to hike, since trails might get muddy after rain.
Other useful items?
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Bug spray for evening events
- Reusable water bottle
- Portable phone charger for long days outdoors
If you pack these basics, you’ll feel ready for both sunny skies and those surprise showers that roll across Alabama.
How Memorial Day Weather Compares to Other Times of Year
Memorial Day in Alabama feels like a real turning point. You’ll notice afternoons warming up compared to early spring, but that thick midsummer heat hasn’t totally taken over yet.
Rain chances start to shift, too. Instead of long, soaking rains from earlier in the year, you get more of those quick, pop-up storms.
Comparison With Early Spring
If you think back to March or early April, Alabama stays much cooler. Highs usually hang out in the 60s or low 70s, and nights can still drop into the 40s.
By late May, though, afternoons often hit the low to mid-80s, and nights feel milder in the 60s.
Spring usually brings more widespread rain systems. Cold fronts sweep through more often, bringing longer spells of steady rain.
By Memorial Day, that pattern changes up. Sure, you still get rain, but it’s usually just a brief afternoon shower or a quick storm.
Humidity creeps up by late May, too. You really start to feel it in the evenings, when the air just doesn’t cool off as much. Early spring evenings, on the other hand, stay drier and feel a lot more comfortable for anything outdoors.
Key differences:
- Temperatures: 60s–70s in spring, but up to the 80s by Memorial Day
- Rain: Longer, soaking events in spring, then more scattered storms in late May
- Humidity: Lower in March and April, noticeably higher by the end of May
Comparison With Early Summer
By June, Alabama really settles into a full-on summer pattern. High temperatures usually climb into the upper 80s and 90s. Nights stay warm too, sometimes not even dipping below 70°F.
If you compare that to Memorial Day, it actually feels a bit cooler and not quite as stifling. There’s a little more breathing room, you know?
Early summer brings daily thunderstorms, and you can almost count on a quick storm rolling through on those hot afternoons. Memorial Day has a bit of this, but storms get more frequent and intense as June moves along.
Dry stretches don’t happen much in summer, at least not like they do in late May. If you get a few dry days in a row in June or July, it honestly feels weird. Memorial Day weekend, though, still has a decent shot at staying dry, especially up in northern Alabama.
Key differences:
- Temperatures: Mid-80s around Memorial Day, but upper 80s to 90s once June hits
- Rain: Scattered and less frequent in May, while summer brings near-daily storms
- Humidity: You’ll notice it by Memorial Day, but it gets heavier in June and July