Tornado Watch Issued as Severe Weather Hits Montgomery County

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Ala. (AP) – Severe weather is sweeping across Montgomery County, prompting officials to issue a tornado watch that will remain in effect until 3 a.m. CDT on Sunday. The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a section of Troy Highway has been completely blocked due to downed power lines, approximately six miles north of Pine Level.

The tornado watch currently covers numerous counties, including Autauga, Baldwin, Barbour, Bibb, and several others. The primary threats include several tornadoes, with a possibility of intense storms, large hail up to two inches in diameter, and damaging wind gusts reaching speeds of 70 mph.

Action 8 Chief Meteorologist Shane Butler has categorized the atmospheric conditions as a CODE RED, indicating a significant risk to public safety and property due to the severe weather. According to the Storm Prediction Center, part of the area is under a rare “high risk” (Level 5 out of 5) threat level.

The counties at high risk include Autauga, Chilton, Marengo, and Perry, while Montgomery and areas to the east and south are under a Moderate (Level 4 out of 5) threat level. Residents are advised to remain vigilant as severe thunderstorms are expected to move northeast through early Sunday morning.

Montgomery residents are encouraged to have a reliable means to receive weather alerts throughout the night. Local events, such as the SLE Rodeo at Garrett Coliseum, will continue as scheduled, with the venue serving as a designated storm shelter. Knowing where to seek shelter during severe weather is crucial, especially for those living in mobile homes.

“This is the time to prepare,” warned Butler. “Don’t rely on outdoor sirens, and make sure you have multiple ways to receive alerts, like a NOAA weather radio in addition to your smartphone.”

Action 8 News will provide continuous coverage, both on-air and online, until the severe weather threat passes. Live updates regarding local conditions and storm safety tips will be available through the Action 8 weather app, which can be downloaded for immediate access to essential weather information.