Evan Chickvara

Birmingham

Meteorologist at Sinclair Broadcast Group

Weekday Morning Meteorologist at WBMA-TV (Birmingham, AL)

Meteorologist Mississippi State Alumni Husband, Father Lauren, Harper, Adam. Co-Host of Weather Wise Guys Podcast

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Articles

Clear Skies, Hidden Threats: The Science Behind "Bolts from the Blue"

1 week ago | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

As we approach the start of summer here in Alabama, we can expect the arrival of thunderstorms. In just a few short weeks, kids will be out of school, spending their time playing, swimming, and enjoying cookouts—lots of fun outdoor activities! However, it’s important to stay safe when these afternoon thunderstorms roll in. One common misconception is that if it’s not raining or storming in your immediate area, you’re safe from lightning.
Meteor Shower Tonight! How to see the Eta Aquariids in the Alabama Sky.

1 week ago | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower Peaks Tonight, Tuesday morning!Catch the peak of the Eta Aquariids early Tuesday from 2–5 a.m.The moon sets around 3 a.m., so the best viewing is after that until dawn. Look low in the eastern sky; expect 10–20 meteors per hour, skies should be mostly clear and ideal for viewing. The shower comes from Halley’s Comet debris, which Earth crosses each year from late April to May.
Final Alabama Freeze?

1 month ago | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

TOPICS:AlabamaFreezeTemperaturesSpringMarchBirminghamAprilFrostWe've had our fair share of warm afternoons following an, at times, frigid winter. Temperature trends across Alabama have trended much warmer since the record setting lows and snows of January, but are we in the clear of freezing temperatures? By the numbers, southern Alabama historically sees it's last freeze of the season in late February to early March.
At least six tornadoes confirmed on radar, NWS surveys to confirm

1 month ago | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

On Saturday, 22 tornado warnings were issued for the Birmingham area, marking the highest single-day occurrence since March 17-18, 2021. Much of central Alabama was under a High Risk (level 5/5) designation from the Storm Prediction Center (SPC), similar to the event in 2021. Of the 22 tornado warnings issued, at least six evolved into radar-confirmed tornadoes via tornado debris signatures (TDS).
The Weather Authority: 80 Degree Days!

2 months ago | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

As we move into mid-March, a hint of spring is in the air. Much of the state has consistently experienced highs in the 70s, with some areas in central and southern Alabama reaching the 80s. Several notable cities in Alabama have already reached temperatures of 80 degrees in 2025.
The Weather Authority: Air Quality Alert- Code Red

2 months ago | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

A Code Red Air Quality Alert in effect for Jefferson and Shelby Counties Tuesday due to unhealthy levels of particulate matter in the air. Conditions are expected to range from moderate to unhealthy today. Screenshot 2025-03-11 022212.pngKey Recommendations according to the Jefferson County Department of Health:Limit outdoor activity: If possible, stay indoors to avoid exposure to harmful particles. If you must go outside, avoid strenuous activity and stay away from busy roads.
Relief on the way? Alabama battles decades high fire season, 599 blazes since January 1st

2 months ago | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

Wildfires have become a major issue for many Alabamians in recent weeks. A combination of dry conditions and ongoing drought have kept both the Alabama Forestry Commission and local fire municipalities very busy. Before Tuesday's storm system, the Alabama Forestry Commission reported 181 active fires across the state. Remarkably, that was just on Tuesday alone! Let’s break it down by the numbers:Since January 1st, Alabama has seen 599 fires that have burned 13,172 acres.
Englewood Elementary Science Night!!

2 months ago | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

It was a fun night at Englewood Elementary!Science night offered kids a look into many different fields of science including, paleontology, geology, meteorology, astronomy, biology chemistry and more!Students were given the opportunity to physically interact with each field with hands on activities, there was even a bearded dragon in attendance!Big thanks to all the faculty who made this happen, always a joy to being meteorology to students who may have an interest!
Beneficial rain Wednesday offers relief to ongoing drought

Feb 12, 2025 | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

Prior to Wednesday's soaking rain, much of central Alabama was approaching a year-to-date rainfall deficit between 2-5". We entered 2025 already in a short term drought, low accumulations in January and February were beginning to exacerbate the drought severity. 24 hour radar estimates show most of central Alabama accrued 1.5 -3.5" inches from 12am Wednesday and 12am Thursday. Official totals may verify higher. Several locations received more rain Wednesday than all prior days combined this year.
The Weather Authority: Alabama's Severe Weather Season- Be Prepared

Feb 12, 2025 | abc3340.com | Evan Chickvara

Alabama's severe weather season runs November through May, more than half the year!Our season peaks with respect to tornado frequency March and April, with April taking the cake as the most active throughout the year. Since 1950, March and April have combined for 40% of all tornadoes occurring in Alabama-those two months alone!The remaining 60% have occurred collectively over the other ten months out of the year, November and May being the biggest contributors.