Will Alabama See the Eclipse in Clear Weather? What NWS Says

Alabama is not in the path of totality for the impending solar eclipse, but we are close enough to enjoy a good display.

For the majority of Alabama, approximately 85% of the sun’s rays will be hidden. Of course, the farther north you go in the state, the greater impact you will notice. According to NASA, the event will last several hours on April 8, beginning around 2:05 p.m. and ending about 4:35 p.m., with a peak of around 4 minutes between 3:19 p.m. and 3:23 p.m.

So, what will the weather be like that afternoon? The National Weather Service office in Birmingham says it is still too early to provide a solid forecast. But thus far, everything are going well.

Will it Be Cloudy in Alabama During the Eclipse?

Long-range predictions call for a largely sunny to partly overcast sky, with cloudier conditions in Alabama’s western parts near the Mississippi line. Jason Holmes, a meteorologist with the NWS Birmingham office, predicts that by the time the eclipse peaks, some higher clouds will have come in, but nothing will impede the view.

“It could be better, but it could be worse,” Holmes stated about the outlook. “We expect far better conditions than the states on the route of totality. Forecasts predict generally foggy conditions in certain states.

“We may have some high clouds move in later in the afternoon, but the clouds will be able to be seen through.”

And if you’re waiting outside for several hours to watch the eclipse, Holmes said the weather should be pleasant, with a high of approximately 80 degrees and low humidity.

How to Receive Updates

As the eclipse approaches, the NWS website, www.weather.gov, will provide more up-to-date forecasts.

The next total solar eclipse will take place in the United States on August 12, 2045. The last time Alabama was in the path of a total solar eclipse was on August 21, 2017.