Severe Storm Risks Heighten in Alabama Ahead of Weekend Weather

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Alabama residents should prepare for severe weather as a storm system is forecasted to sweep through the region from Thursday through Saturday, bringing the potential for tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds.

The National Weather Service has issued alerts indicating that Thursday will experience isolated severe storms with a level 1 risk of severe weather, meaning isolated incidents could occur. The storms, expected to arrive after 9 a.m., may produce wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail the size of golf balls.

On Friday, a shift in the atmospheric conditions will escalate the severe weather outlook, prompting a level 2 risk and a severe weather alert primarily for the late evening into early Saturday morning. Wind gusts are expected to be between 30-40 mph prior to the storms’ arrival.

“Friday night into Saturday morning is the time to watch for storms, particularly in western Alabama,” said a meteorologist from the National Weather Service. “These storms may produce tornadoes, damaging winds, and sizeable hail.”

Saturday is anticipated to be the most severe day with a level 3 risk of severe weather statewide, including a likelihood of strong tornadoes and hail reaching the size of tennis balls. The main severe weather event is predicted to occur between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, stretching into the early hours of Sunday morning.

“The setup for Saturday indicates a classic severe weather scenario, with a strong jet stream, instability in the air, and wind shear,” explained a senior forecaster. “This combination raises the likelihood of significant tornadoes with long paths.”

As meteorologists prepare for this outbreak, they emphasize the importance of having multiple ways to receive weather alerts such as NOAA Weather Radios and weather apps. “Do not rely solely on outdoor sirens,” they advised.

After the storm system, expected cooler weather will return on Sunday, with high temperatures in the middle 60s and a strong northwest wind.

Residents are urged to stay weather-aware and be ready for potential impacts on their daily routine throughout this stormy weekend.