News Summary
Alabama is preparing for severe weather, with thunderstorms and a risk of tornadoes expected later today. Officials have declared a state of emergency across all counties as damaging winds and large hail become a concern. Rainfall of 3 to 5 inches is forecasted, potentially leading to localized flooding. Residents are urged to be prepared and stay informed, as tonight’s storms could still pose significant risks despite a currently low tornado risk.
Severe Weather Hits Alabama: Thunderstorms, Tornado Risk Loom
Alabama is bracing for severe weather this afternoon, as scattered thunderstorms develop across the state, bringing risks of damaging winds, large hail, and potential tornadoes. A high temperature of 88°F is expected today with winds blowing from the south at 15 to 25 mph. As the situation unfolds, officials have declared a state of emergency for all 67 counties in Alabama.
Weather Forecast and Alerts
Starting around 4 to 5 p.m., showers are likely to develop mainly west of Interstate 65, followed by a line of rain with embedded storms predicted to enter northwest Alabama around 6 p.m., reaching the Huntsville metro area by 8 p.m. Wind gusts could reach levels between 40 and 50 mph outside of storms, prompting a Wind Advisory that takes effect at noon on Tuesday and lasts until 3 p.m. Wednesday.
Tonight, temperatures are expected to drop to 59°F, with winds shifting to the west-southwest at 10 to 20 mph. The risk of severe thunderstorms continues, with damaging winds estimated between 60 and 70 mph. Although the overall tornado risk is currently deemed low, residents are advised to remain vigilant as storms are forecasted to clear northeastern Alabama shortly after midnight.
Potential Hazards
With anticipated rainfall totals of 3 to 5 inches across Alabama, localized areas may experience exceeding seven inches, leading to possible flooding, particularly in northern regions. The weather could produce tornadoes that may reach EF2 strength or higher, alongside significant wind gusts during storm times, heightening concerns for residents in affected areas.
Safety Precautions
Residents are urged to prepare for severe weather by assembling emergency kits and roadside assistance tools. It’s critical to maintain communication with out-of-town contacts in the event that local power lines and communication services are disrupted. Awareness and preparation strategies include the use of NOAA weather radios, smartphone weather apps, and ensuring households are stocked with sturdy shoes and helmets for personal safety during storms.
Conclusion
As Alabama faces these severe weather conditions, local authorities stress the importance of staying informed and prepared. The combination of thunderstorms, high winds, and potential tornado activity poses significant risks to the population. Residents should monitor local weather updates and adhere to safety guidelines to protect themselves and their families during this challenging weather event.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
City Halts Construction at Summit at Monte Sano Development Amid Flooding Concerns
Alabama Braces for Severe Weather Weekend
Southeast Faces Major Flooding Threat as Atmospheric River Hits
Huntsville Officials Wrap Up Winter Weather Operations
Huntsville Halts Monte Sano Subdivision Construction Due to Flooding
Alabama Prepares for Severe Weather This Weekend
Dense Fog Advisory in North Alabama After Storms
Alabama Trust Allocates $250,000 for Winter Storm Bill Assistance
Lane Closure on Governors Drive in Huntsville for Tree Hazard Removal
14 Years Since the Devastating Alabama Tornado Outbreak
Additional Resources
- WHNT: Impact Day Tuesday – Threat of Strong Winds & Severe Storms
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
- WAFF: Severe Storms & Damaging Wind Likely
- Google Search: Alabama weather severe storms
- Alabama Reflector: Dangerous Weather Forecast for Alabama
- Google News: Alabama severe weather
- AL.com: Severe Storms Possible Tuesday Night in Alabama
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Weather
- AL.com: Alabama’s Severe Weather Risk Expanded
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather Alabama
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.
