Thunderstorms with Hail Sweep Through West Central Alabama

Severe weather brings pea-sized hail and wind gusts up to 40 mph on Wednesday afternoon.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 7:38pm

The National Weather Service issued a weather alert on Wednesday at 2:34 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 3 p.m. in Sumter, Greene and Hale counties in West Central Alabama. Residents should expect pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind gusts of up to 40 mph, which could potentially knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.

Why it matters

Severe thunderstorms can pose significant risks to public safety, causing property damage, power outages, and dangerous driving conditions. With the threat of hail and high winds, this storm system requires residents to take proper precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

The details

According to the weather service, the storms were tracking northeast at 25 mph, with the potential for minor hail damage to vegetation. Impacted areas include Livingston, Eutaw, Forkland, Boligee, Gainesville, Epes, Emelle, and several other communities in the region. The weather service advises anyone outdoors to seek shelter inside a building immediately.

  • The weather alert was issued at 2:34 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
  • The storms are expected to last until 3 p.m. on Wednesday.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for issuing weather alerts and forecasts for the United States.

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What’s next

Residents should continue to monitor local weather reports and heed any further warnings or instructions from the National Weather Service and local authorities.

The takeaway

This severe thunderstorm serves as a reminder for West Central Alabama residents to stay vigilant and prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions, especially during the spring and summer months when storms are more common. Following safety guidelines can help minimize the risks and ensure the community's well-being.