Severe Weather Threat Looms Across Alabama

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Alabama is bracing for a round of severe weather starting late tonight, with the potential for damaging winds, hail, and a few strong tornadoes across much of the state. The storms are expected to arrive in the northwest corner of the state around 7 PM Sunday and move eastward, reaching central and southern Alabama by 11 PM to 4 AM Monday before exiting the southeast corner by 7 AM.

Why it matters

Severe weather can pose a significant threat to public safety, causing power outages, property damage, and even loss of life. Knowing when the storms are expected to arrive in your local area is crucial for being prepared and taking appropriate precautions.

The details

According to Jim Stefkovich, meteorologist for the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, almost the entire state is now under an enhanced risk due to the increased chances of damaging winds. Non-thunderstorm winds will increase this afternoon and evening ahead of the severe storms, with sustained winds of 10-20 mph and gusts up to 30 mph south of I-20, and 25-35 mph north of I-20. A few gusts could reach 40 mph in the higher elevations of north Alabama. A few supercells, possibly some with long-track tornadoes, could also develop ahead of the line, especially east of I-65 and south of I-85.

• The northwest corner of the state, including the Shoals, will see storms from 7 PM Sunday to 1 AM Monday.
• Storms will move east to places like Huntsville and south to Birmingham and Tuscaloosa from 10 PM-2 AM.
• Southern central Alabama, including Montgomery down to the coast, will have a severe weather window of 11 PM – 4 AM Monday before the storms exit the southeast corner from 1 AM-7 AM.

What’s next

A big temperature drop will follow the storms on Monday with the possibility of light snow showers or sleet on Monday morning as far south as the Livingston, Montgomery, Auburn line. However, no winter impacts are expected.