Update on Possible West Alabama Impacts from Future Hurricane

It is essential to closely monitor updates on potential tropical developments, as evolving conditions can alter forecasts and impact projections. The Townsquare Media Weather Center is tracking this unfolding weather situation.

Current Outlook

• It is predicted to develop into a tropical storm later today or this evening.
• Expected rapid movement northward.
• Forecasted to transition into a hurricane on Wednesday.
• The projected landfall is Thursday afternoon or evening.
• The likely landfall location is between Florida's Big Bend and the Panhandle.
• It could potentially strengthen to a category three hurricane.
• Hurricane and Tropical Storm watches have been issued for portions of Florida.

What Does This Mean for Alabama?

James Spann, ABC 33/40, and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist said, “The Alabama Gulf Coast, Pensacola, Navarre Beach, Fort Walton Beach, and Destin will have breezy, showery weather but nothing dangerous based on the current forecast track.”

Severe Weather Outlook

“The southeast corner of Alabama (around Dothan) could see wind gusts to 40/45 mph Thursday night,” said Spann. “The rest of East Alabama will see gusts to 35 mph; gusts over the western half of the state will be in the 20-30 mph range.”

In addition, tornadoes are not expected at this time because of the side of the system that Alabama will be located on. Most tornado activity is associated east of the center of circulation of a hurricane.

Influx of Rain Outlook

A possible hurricane is likely to bring significant rainfall to the southern area. From tomorrow through Friday morning, the eastern part of Alabama could see 4-5 inches of rain, while the western counties might experience 2-3 inches.

The National Weather Service in Birmingham said “Flooding could become the greatest impact with this system, with a potential of 2 to 4 inches of rain with locally higher amounts across much of Central AL Thursday through Friday.”