Huntsville, AL, October 3, 2025
News Summary
Huntsville is currently experiencing abnormally dry conditions this September, with only 2.70 inches of rainfall recorded, falling short of the average of 3.5 inches. Despite the wet months earlier in the year, local meteorologists warn that the region may face below-average rainfall for the year. The Alabama Forestry Commission has issued a Fire Danger Advisory due to the increased risk of wildfires. As October approaches, residents are advised to monitor their gardens and exercise caution with outdoor burning.
Huntsville Facing Abnormally Dry Conditions in September
Huntsville is experiencing abnormally dry conditions this September, significantly impacting the region’s long-standing average rainfall patterns. Typically one of the driest months, September has seen Huntsville receive only 2.70 inches of rainfall, which is below the usual average of 3.5 inches.
Earlier this year, parts of North Alabama were characterized by some of the wettest months in history. For instance, May 2023 was recorded as the second rainiest month for Huntsville, with 11.21 inches of rain. This was just shy of the 1983 record of 11.88 inches. June followed with 4.41 inches of rain, surpassing the average of 4.06 inches, though it did not break the all-time record of 14.99 inches set in 1989.
Despite the earlier wetter months, the current trend suggests that North Alabama may conclude the year with below-average rainfall. Local meteorologists indicate that Huntsville International Airport has recorded just 68% of normal rainfall over the past 30 days, approximately 3.4 inches instead of the average of 5 inches.
Fire Danger and Drought Conditions
Due to the dry conditions, the Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) has issued a Fire Danger Advisory across all of Alabama. This advisory raises concerns regarding the likelihood of wildfires, particularly from smoldering debris piles that could ignite larger fires. Moreover, moderate drought conditions have been reported in several locations, including parts of northern Lauderdale County, parts of Colbert County, and a section of Giles County in Tennessee.
Most of the Tennessee Valley is now under classification as “abnormally dry,” being the first stage of the drought scale. Although this indicates a shortfall in rainfall, meteorological experts clarify that this does not yet signal widespread severe drought issues. However, if the current deficit in rainfall persists into October, which is historically another dry month, the risk of a more critical drought could increase. Huntsville is not alone in these struggles, as several areas have seen substantial disparities in rainfall, with Scottsboro being noted as the driest with merely 38% of typical rainfall.
Current Local Conditions and Assistance
In August, the rainfall totals were also below average. While the Shoals region managed 2.10 inches, Huntsville and Fort Payne received 1.04 inches and 1.54 inches respectively. Areas like Florence, however, reported a slight surplus at 102% of normal rainfall.
To support those affected by the drought conditions, emergency loans are available for Alabama businesses, nonprofits, and farmers designated by the USDA Secretary. The drought has prompted 38 Alabama counties to be declared as primary or contiguous natural disaster areas, indicating that over half the counties in the state are grappling with drought-related challenges.
Outlook and Advice for Residents
With October approaching, it is essential for residents to monitor their gardens and lawns carefully and exercise caution regarding outdoor burning activities due to the heightened fire risk. Historical patterns suggest that North Alabama typically receives more rainfall in November and December, which may help alleviate the ongoing dry conditions.
Key Statistics on Recent Rainfall
- September Rainfall: 2.70 inches
- Average September Rainfall: 3.5 inches
- May 2023 Rainfall: 11.21 inches
- June Rainfall: 4.41 inches
- Rainfall Over the Last 30 Days: 3.4 inches (68% of normal)
- Scottsboro Rainfall: 38% of typical rainfall
- Counties Declared Disaster Areas: 38
FAQ
What were the rainfall totals in Huntsville for September?
Huntsville recorded only 2.70 inches of rainfall in September, below the typical average of 3.5 inches.
What is the current drought condition in North Alabama?
Most of the Tennessee Valley is facing “abnormally dry” conditions, which is the first stage in the drought classification scale.
How many Alabama counties have been declared as natural disaster areas?
38 Alabama counties have been declared as primary or contiguous natural disaster areas due to the drought, affecting over half the counties in the state.
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Additional Resources
- WHNT: Threat of Worsening Drought Prompts Fire Danger Advisory for Alabama
- Rocket City Now: Is North Alabama Experiencing a Drought?
- AL.com: Feds Open Emergency Loans to Alabamians in 38 Drought-Hit Counties
- Wikipedia: Main Page
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Main Page
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
