Wind Gusts, Rain, Strong – Severe Storms to Impact Alabama Soon
Concern #1
We are focused on the wind potential where some areas could see wind gusts up to 40 miles per hour. According to the National Weather Service in Birmingham, there is a "chance of enough unstable air pushing northward for severe storm development. Trends continue to indicate that instability will be meager at best, but just enough for a marginal severe risk."
James Spann, ABC 33/40, and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist said those wind values “that could bring down some trees due to the wet soil conditions. Those along ridges could see a gust to 50 mph spots. It will be very windy and noisy tonight.”
It is recommend that you secure any loose outdoor items due the anticipated strong wind gusts.
Click here for the details on the wind advisory. And if you are traveling, there is a high wind warning for Mobile, Baldwin, and Washington counties.
Concern #2
“It is important to note that while the core threat of severe thunderstorms is confined to the southwest corner of Alabama,” said Spann.
Timing
Winds > the timing for the high gradient winds should kick in tonight around 8 p.m. These winds will last into tomorrow mid-day and then decrease in speed throughout Wednesday.
For the “severe thunderstorms across Southwest Alabama, the window comes from 11:00 tonight through 4:00 a.m. tomorrow,” said Spann.
Risk Levels Determined by Storm Prediction Center
An “Enhanced Risk" (level 3/5) of severe storms tonight for areas south of a line from Millry to Evergreen to Brewton.
A “Slight Risk" (level 2/5) extends as far north and east as Sweetwater, Greenville, and Geneva.
A "Marginal Risk" is defined as far north as Tuscaloosa, but severe thunderstorms are not expected over North/Central Alabama with no surface based instability available.
Probability of a Tornado
The guide from the Strom Prediction Center explains the probability of a tornado for different sections of Alabama. Spann mentions that the “thunderstorms across Southwest Alabama in the "enhanced risk" area could produce hail, damaging winds, and a few tornadoes tonight. A strong tornado (EF-2 or higher) can't be ruled out.”
(Source) Click here to follow the Facebook Page for James Spann. For more from the National Weather Service Birmingham, click here.
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