News Summary
As Alabama prepares for a weekend filled with severe weather, including strong tornadoes and damaging winds, Governor Kay Ivey has declared a state of emergency. The National Weather Service warns residents to stay alert from late Friday through Saturday, with potential tornadoes expected to reach EF2 strength. Heavy rainfall is also predicted, with Northern Alabama at risk for 3-5 inches or more. Residents are urged to take precautions, stay informed, and be prepared to seek shelter as the storms approach.
Huntsville, Alabama – Alabama is preparing for a weekend of severe weather as strong tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail are expected to impact the region. The National Weather Service warns residents to stay alert and prepare for potentially dangerous conditions starting late Friday and continuing into Saturday.
The National Weather Service predicts increasing winds on Friday, with gusts reaching 30 mph by the evening. By Saturday afternoon, gusts could escalate to 35 mph, remaining strong into early Sunday morning. Meteorologist Andrew Pritchett emphasizes the importance of being prepared for these weather threats while avoiding unnecessary panic.
Governor Kay Ivey has declared a state of emergency for all 67 counties in Alabama, effective from 2:00 p.m. Central on Friday until further notice. In her announcement, Ivey urged residents to remain aware of local forecasts and to take necessary precautions for emergency situations.
As severe thunderstorms approach, these storms may lead to isolated or scattered supercells from late Friday night through Saturday morning. A warming air layer, referred to as a “cap,” could temporarily inhibit severe storm formation; however, if this cap dissipates, it may result in numerous supercells developing throughout the area. Meteorologists warn that the potential tornadoes could reach EF2 strength or higher, with wind speeds exceeding 70 mph.
In northern Alabama, heavy rainfall is anticipated, with forecasts predicting 3-5 inches in some areas. Certain localized regions might experience rainfall exceeding 7 inches. The greatest risk for tornadoes is expected in west and northwest Alabama, creating a need for heightened vigilance among residents in those regions.
Jeff Smitherman, the director of the Alabama Emergency Management Agency, underscores the importance of having an emergency contact outside of the area for communication purposes. Residents are advised to take several preparatory measures, including assembling an emergency kit, maintaining NOAA weather radios with extra batteries, and ensuring they have a clear plan in place for potential severe weather events.
To stay informed, it is recommended that residents download reliable weather and emergency alert applications and keep their electronic devices charged. Staying close to a known safe location and remaining alert for weather updates is crucial throughout the duration of Saturday’s storms.
Conditions are expected to improve late Saturday night into early Sunday morning, offering some respite from the severe weather. Meteorologists suggest that residents prepare by having helmets and sturdy shoes immediately available in case of structural damage. Additionally, knowing the locations of nearby storm shelters is highly recommended.
People residing in mobile homes or those who feel unsafe are strongly encouraged to relocate to sturdier locations ahead of the storms. Overall, the National Weather Service advises everyone to maintain vigilance and readiness for potential weather threats, ensuring that the community remains prepared while avoiding undue alarm.
As Alabama braces for this severe weather event, the focus on preparedness and awareness remains essential. With the forecast indicating significant risks, residents are reminded to prioritize safety and take proactive steps to safeguard themselves and their families against the impending storms.
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Additional Resources
- Alabama Reflector: Dangerous Weather Forecast for Alabama
- WAFF: 48 First Alert Weather Day – Severe Thunderstorms
- WAAY: Tracking Winter Weather in North Alabama
- Weather.com: Huntsville, Alabama Weather
- Google Search: Huntsville Alabama Weather News
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.
