The National Weather Service's Climate Prediction Center released its February outlook on Friday. The long range forecast calls for most of Alabama to be in the area of 40 to 60 percent chances of seeing above normal temperatures. The same forecast calls for normal precipitation for the month.

The southeast corner of Alabama has the highest probabilities of above-average February temperatures — 60-70 percent, according to the CPC. A majority of the rest of the state doesn’t fare too badly either, with 50-60 percent odds of above-average temperatures. The northwest corner of the state has 40-50 percent odds.

Gov. Kay Ivey is proclaiming Feb. 3-7 as “Alabama Severe Weather Awareness Week,” a way of keeping the state’s residents informed about the dangers Mother Nature can bring.

Lightning strikes the U.S about 25 million times per year with most of the strikes occurring during the summer months. According to the National Weather Service, from

February 3 through February 7 is severe weather preparedness week in both Georgia and Alabama. This week is used to remind residents to be prepared and how to stay safe during severe weather season. Wednesday’s topic focuses on tornado safety.

Severe Weather Awareness Week in Alabama. The purpose of this week is to educate and inform people of Alabama about the weather threats we commonly see during the spring months. Today, we focus on forecasts and having the ability to receive weather alerts.