Alabama Faces Incoming Severe Weather, Heavy Rain & Wind Threat
The Townsquare Media Weather Center is monitoring a weather system that should travel across Alabama, bringing the concerns of strong storms, windy conditions, and heavy rainfall to the area.
Gradient Winds Ahead of the Storms + Not Storm-Related
Today, gradient winds preceding the storm system are a concern. Winds are expected to increase, with speeds ranging from 15 to 25 mph and the possibility of stronger gusts.
In addition, gradient winds tonight not related to thunderstorms are also a concern. “Winds tonight will average 15-30 mph, with potential for gusts to 40/45 mph in spots. Be sure to secure any loose objects on your property, and know there could be a few scattered power outages tonight. Winds will diminish after the thunderstorm line passes after midnight,” said James Spann, ABC 33/40, and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist.
Severe Weather Threat
Spann said, “A band of showers and thunderstorms will push into Alabama late tonight. Thankfully, there will be little to no surface-based instability available over the northern two-thirds of the state, so the line of storms will weaken, and the threat of severe storms is low in our state.”
Currently, the National Weather Service in Birmingham includes the threat of tornadoes and damaging winds up to 60 mph.
Also, there is a concern about flooding. Heavy rainfall can lead to localized flooding, especially in urban and/or poor drainage areas.
“Rain amounts will average 1-2 inches for most of Alabama over the next 36 hours; parts of West Alabama could see over 2 inches,” said Spann.
Timing
According to the National Weather Service in Birmingham, the timing outlook is tonight from 11 p.m. through Tuesday morning at 7 a.m. The Townsquare Media is split between tonight at 11 p.m. until 3 a.m. and then another zone from 1 a.m. until 5 a.m.
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