Rain Saturday did not deter hundreds of voters who lined up to vote their absentee ballot in person at the downtown Jefferson County courthouse.

It was the last Saturday the two courthouses in Birmingham and Bessemer were to be open for absentee voters before Nov. 3’s election, though they still can cast their absentee ballots at the courthouses Mondays through Fridays next week and the day before the election.

The lines are unusual but are happening this year because of concerns about crowds at the polls on Election Day. A higher voter turnout is expected, and the secretary of state has approved absentee voting for this election only for any voter who has concerns about exposure to the coronavirus. On the application, you can check the box next to the line that reads: “I have a physical illness or infirmity which prevents my attendance at the polls.”

Thursday is the deadline to apply for an absentee ballot.