Afternoon Update

The latest day one convective outlook from the SPC maintains the threat for severe weather through the overnight hours. No change in the areas outlined by the risk as much of Alabama remains under the threat of severe weather. We are watching the low developing to our west and there have already been some severe thunderstorm warnings issued in Texas and Louisiana, where a severe thunderstorm watch (outlined in blue) remains in effect. Later this evening and overnight, as the dynamics increase, we are expecting tornado watches to be issued.

We will be watching for individual cells developing out ahead of the main line. With the ample shear that will be in place later tonight, there remains a threat for tornadoes. The higher tornado probabilities are over southwestern portions of the state, but there is a tornado threat for much of Central Alabama. We will also see a line of storms develop, and as it pushes through the state, we will have a damaging wind threat as well. We could see a few severe storms move into the state before midnight, but the worst of the weather arrives after midnight. This is a very dangerous event as it will occur during the overnight hours. Tonight is one of those nights it is essential you have a way to receive severe weather alerts.

Rain continues to fall across much of Central Alabama this afternoon. It is a cool and rainy day, but we are watching a warm front lifting north slowly. As stated in earlier posts today, this very dynamic system will more than compensate for the lack of instability. Some severe storms are ongoing to our west and as the low lifts northeast later this evening, we will see additional storms develop.

FLOODING THREAT: The entire state of Alabama has been placed under a flash flood watch. The grounds are saturated and with the recent rains as well as the additional rains we will receive overnight, flooding is a threat. An additional 2-3 inches of rain will occur and some areas we will receive even more. Many rivers and streams are running full as well and the rain we receive will only make conditions worse. Please use caution and if you encounter flooded roadways, remember to TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN!

Category: Alabama's Weather, Severe Weather