Severe Weather Update: Alabama Faces Threat of Tornadoes and High Winds
A severe weather system is impacting Alabama, with a squall line extending from Arkansas to Louisiana. While conditions are improving in Alabama, there are warnings about high winds and possible tornadoes, particularly in the southern regions. Residents should stay alert and have emergency plans ready as storms are expected later in the evening.
As of noon, severe weather continues to affect Alabama with a squall line stretching from southern Arkansas into Central and Southwest Louisiana. Numerous severe thunderstorm warnings are active, including areas near Monticello, AR, Alexandria, LA, and Pollock, LA, where a confirmed tornado was reported. Although the tornado has weakened, conditions are still volatile with wind gusts reaching 45 mph.
In Alabama, conditions are improving with a notable inversion at approximately 10,000 feet. Temperatures have risen into the upper 60s and lower 70s, while dew points are climbing. Wind gusts are significant across the state, with Huntsville International recording gusts of 42 mph, Birmingham at 25 mph, and Greenville at 35 mph.
Due to a deepening surface low, Alabama is currently under a Wind Advisory, with winds gusting between 30 to 40 mph. With stronger gusts anticipated, residents are cautioned to secure loose outdoor items as these conditions may cause damage to power lines and tree limbs before storms arrive.
The Storm Prediction Center is expected to issue a tornado watch for much of southeastern Louisiana and southern Mississippi soon. With dewpoints soaring, the atmosphere is becoming increasingly unstable, posing the risk for embedded tornadoes. Particularly, areas south of I-20 in Mississippi will face heightened instability, raising the threat level for strong tornadoes within this storm line.
The fast-moving storm system is projected to enter northwest Alabama between 6-7 PM, exiting the southeastern portion of the state by 1-2 AM. The main hazards include damaging straight-line winds and the possibility of isolated tornadoes in parts of southwest Alabama, which has been designated an Enhanced Risk (level 3/5).
Despite lower instability throughout most of Alabama, high wind shear may lead to embedded tornadoes. Wind gusts can potentially exceed 60 mph within the squall line, increasing the likelihood of power outages and fallen trees as the storms develop.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant during the night as severe weather may occur. It is advisable to have multiple warning systems in place, including NOAA Weather Radio and other emergency notifications. Charge all devices in anticipation of potential power outages and ensure a severe weather plan is ready, especially for those in vulnerable structures.
In summary, Alabama’s weather is under scrutiny as a severe storm system approaches, bringing risks of damaging winds and isolated tornadoes, particularly in the southwest region. Residents should prepare by securing loose items and staying informed through multiple channels to ensure their safety during this volatile weather period.
Original Source: www.alabamawx.com
