News Summary
Alabama residents are facing severe weather conditions this weekend, including strong tornadoes, damaging winds, and heavy rainfall. With a state of emergency declared, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed and prepared for the potential impact of the storm. Meteorologists expect gusty winds, thunderstorms, and even tornadoes with winds exceeding 70 mph. Flooding could also pose significant risks, especially in northern counties. Residents should prepare emergency kits and have plans in place to ensure their safety throughout this turbulent weather period.
Severe Weather Alert for Alabama: What You Need to Know
This weekend is shaping up to be a tense one for many folks in Alabama as severe weather prepares to sweep across the state. Meteorologists are predicting a range of frightening weather events, including strong tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail. It’s essential for all residents to stay informed and take necessary precautions as the situation unfolds.
What’s Happening?
Starting Friday, residents can expect winds to pick up significantly. The National Weather Service forecasts that non-thunderstorm winds will become increasingly gusty, reaching up to 30 mph by Friday evening. As we move into Saturday, these gusts may escalate to around 35 mph, with strong winds lasting through early Sunday morning. This is just the beginning, as the real stormy weather is on the way!
State of Emergency Declared
In response to the anticipated weather chaos, Alabama’s Governor has taken precautionary steps by declaring a state of emergency that encompasses all 67 counties in the state. This declaration went into effect at 2:00 p.m. Central on Friday and will remain active until it is deemed safe to lift the alert. The move emphasizes the importance of public awareness and preparedness during these unpredictable times.
Severe Thunderstorms Ahead
As Friday gives way to Saturday, the forecast indicates that we could see severe thunderstorms developing. Some isolated or scattered “supercells” may form, depending on weather conditions. While there’s a chance that a warm air layer could restrict storm development, if that layer dissipates, we could be in for a bumpy ride with potentially numerous supercells on the horizon.
Possible Tornadoes on the Way
Brace yourselves because tornadoes could reach an EF2 strength or even higher! Some of these whirling wonders may generate winds exceeding 70 mph. The greatest risk for tornado formation is noted to be in the west and northwest sections of the state, so if you’re in those areas, it’s time to be vigilant.
Flooding Warnings Issued
It is not just tornadoes that Alabamians should be wary of. Heavy rainfall is also expected, especially in northern Alabama, where totals could reach 3-5 inches, and in some localized spots, there may be amounts exceeding seven inches. Flooding could become a significant concern, so residents should keep this in mind as the weather unfolds.
Get Prepared!
If you haven’t already taken action, now is the time to prepare. It is highly recommended that residents establish an emergency contact outside of their household and prepare an emergency kit. A few key items to pack include:
- NOAA weather radio
- Reliable weather alert apps on your phone
- A clear plan for receiving weather warnings
- Access to sturdy shelters and emergency supplies
Consider keeping items like helmets and sturdy shoes close by in case of structural damage during the storm.
Stay Informed and Alert
Keep your electronic devices charged and ensure that the “do not disturb” setting is disabled, so you don’t miss any urgent alerts. Although regions like Huntsville might seem relatively calm, there’s still potential for severe weather, and residents should remain on high alert throughout the weekend.
Calm After the Storm
Weather conditions are expected to calm down late Saturday night into early Sunday morning. Until then, stay safe, be prepared, and keep your loved ones close. Remember, being informed and ready is the key to navigating through this turbulent time!
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Additional Resources
- Alabama Reflector: Dangerous Weather Forecast for Alabama This Weekend
- Weather.com: Huntsville, AL Weather
- WHNT: City of Huntsville EMA Update on Severe Weather Threat
- WAFF: 48 First Alert Weather – Friday Afternoon Forecast
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather Forecast
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
