Primary Threat: Flash flooding due to slow-moving, heavy rain is the most significant concern.
Severe Potential: Strong wind gusts exceeding 58 mph, hail, and a limited tornado risk are possible within stronger individual storm cells. Tornado warnings were issued for northwestern counties Saturday night as storms moved in from Mississippi.
Watches Issued: A Flood Watch covers North and Central Alabama through Monday evening. A Tornado Watch was active for northwestern counties until early Sunday morning, with potential extension into Central Alabama later.
Rainfall Amounts: Expect widespread rainfall of 2-3 inches, with localized totals potentially reaching 4-5 inches, especially north of Interstate 20.
Why This Matters: Severe weather poses risks to safety and property. Flash flooding can quickly make roads impassable, and strong winds can cause damage. Staying informed is crucial.
The storm system is expected to impact Alabama in stages throughout Sunday. Initial isolated showers Saturday evening will give way to a more organized line of storms overnight into Sunday.
Timeline:
11 p.m. Sat - 8 a.m. Sun: Northwestern counties (Lauderdale, Colbert, Franklin, Marion, etc.).
6 a.m. - Noon Sun: Central counties (Jefferson, Shelby, Tuscaloosa, etc.).
8 a.m. - 10 p.m. Sun: Eastern counties (Calhoun, Talladega, Lee, etc.).
Impacts: While the overall tornado risk is limited, isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out, particularly with storms moving in from Mississippi that showed rotation. The primary impact for most will be heavy rainfall leading to potential flash flooding. Residents in flood-prone areas should be particularly vigilant.
Post-Storm Cooldown: Following the storms, a significant temperature drop, sometimes referred to as "Dogwood Winter," is expected. Monday morning will see temperatures in the upper 40s and low 50s with gusty northwest winds. Monday afternoon will remain cool, possibly below 60 degrees for some. Tuesday and Wednesday mornings will be colder, with a slight chance of scattered frost by Wednesday morning, followed by pleasant afternoons.
Q: What are the main dangers with these storms?
A: The primary danger is flash flooding from heavy rain. Strong wind gusts, hail, and a limited chance of tornadoes are also possible.
Q: When will the worst weather hit my area?
A: Check the timeline provided above based on your location: Northwest Alabama (late Sat night/early Sun AM), Central Alabama (Sun morning/midday), East Alabama (Sun morning through evening).
Q: Will it stay warm after the rain?
A: No, a significant cool snap is expected, with much colder temperatures arriving Monday and potentially lasting through Wednesday morning, including a slight chance of frost.
Be aware of the potential for flash flooding, especially in low-lying or urban areas. Never drive through flooded roadways.
Monitor weather alerts closely through Sunday via reliable sources like the National Weather Service or local news apps (e.g., WVTM 13 app).
Secure outdoor items that could be affected by strong winds.
Have a plan and a safe place to go if tornado warnings are issued for your area.
Prepare for significantly cooler temperatures early next week.
How are you preparing for the potential severe weather? Do you think this cool snap marks the end of winter? Let us know!
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Source 1: Storms will stretch across Alabama Sunday, some could be severe target="_blank"
Source 2: Severe Thunderstorm Warning Update - The Alabama Weather Blog target="_blank" (Note: Specific post link unavailable from input, linking main site)
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