Alabama on Guard for Tornadoes, Damaging Winds & Golf Ball Size Hail

The Townsquare Media Weather Center will be on duty throughout the weekend to provide you with all the necessary updates to help you stay ahead of the storm.

As Alabamians prepare for severe weather, this storm system will track across multiple states over the next few days.

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The Weather Channel said, “The setup supporting this multiday severe weather threat is familiar for March and the rest of spring, with a sharp southward plunge of the jet stream swinging out of the West toward the central and eastern states.”

Risk Levels

The Storm Prediction Center has Alabama divided up into various risk levels, which range from "enhanced risk" (level 3/5), "slight risk" (level 2/5), and "marginal risk” (level 1/5).

Townsquare Media Risk Areas

Bibb: Under a slight risk.

Fayette: This county is split between enhanced and slight risks.

Greene: Under a slight risk.

Hale: Under a slight risk.

Lamar: Enhanced Risk

Perry: Under a slight risk.

Pickens: Northwest corner of the county under an “Enhanced Risk” with most of the county “Slight Risk.”

Sumter: Under a slight risk.

Tuscaloosa: Under a slight risk.

Walker: Most of the county is under a slight risk.

Threats

The National Weather Service in Birmingham advised residents to be aware that this system poses threats of “tornadoes, damaging winds up to 70 mph, and large hail up to golf ball size.”

James Spann, ABC 33/40, and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist said, “It is beginning to look like the event will consist of a single line of storms, meaning the main threat will come from hail and strong/damaging winds. However, shear profiles suggest a few isolated tornadoes will be possible as well.”

Timing for the Townsquare Media Coverage Area

Bibb: Monday 4 a.m. through Noon

Fayette: Monday Midnight through Noon

Greene: Monday 4 a.m. through Noon

Hale: Monday 4 a.m. through Noon

Lamar: Monday Midnight through Noon

Perry: Monday 4 a.m. through Noon

Pickens: Monday Midnight through Noon

Sumter: Monday 4 a.m. through Noon

Tuscaloosa: Monday 4 a.m. through Noon

Walker: Monday Midnight through Noon

Timing and Threat Concerns

“This is a 'middle of the night' event, meaning it is critical that you can hear warnings,” said Spann.

Make sure you know which county and specific part of the county you live in. I also recommend familiarizing yourself with the neighboring counties so that you can stay informed about any potential events or situations that might affect your area.

Identify a safe place in your home or wherever you plan to be on Sunday evening into Monday. This could be a basement, storm shelter, or an interior room without windows. Additionally, take the time to locate nearby shelters in case you need to evacuate.

Check in with family and friends so they are aware of the incoming severe weather.

Have a reliable source for weather information and alerts.

Because this event is expected to occur late at night and overnight, ensure your phone is not silenced when you go to bed so you can receive any emergency alerts.

Mary K. – Weather Forecaster

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