The Alabama Crimson Tide will begin its season this upcoming weekend at Bryant-Denny Stadium against the East Carolina Pirates, but fans who are headed to Tuscaloosa should take precautions with some extreme heat in the forecast.

According to James Spann, the heat index for the 11:00 a.m. kickoff could rise to one of the warmest Alabama games ever recorded, with temperatures rising into the 97-100 range by the fourth quarter, including a heat index which climbs near 110 degrees.

FOOTBALL WEATHER: Saturday's East Carolina vs Alabama game will be one of the hottest UA home games on record (11:00a CT kickoff in Tuscaloosa). Temperatures will rise into the 97-100 degree range by the fourth quarter, with the heat index near 110. The chance of a cooling shower…

— James Spann (@spann) August 30, 2026

Water coolers will be stationed around the stadium as they have been in years past, with fans able to bring in their own vessel to fill up and stay hydrated. Regardless, it’s going to be extremely hot for fans who decide to stay for the entire game.

Seats on the eastern side of Bryant-Denny Stadium will bear the brunt of the impact, but it’s important for all fans to recognize the dangers of heat stroke and the necessity to stay hydrated, especially if alcohol is involved in their game day experience.

Everyone is excited for the return of football, but in temperatures like this, paying attention to weather, hydrating, using sunscreen and other methods of sun protection are all critical.