Birmingham, AL – Residents across central Alabama could face dangerous overnight weather as severe thunderstorms capable of producing 70 mph wind gusts and isolated tornadoes move through the region between 8 p.m. Sunday and 7 a.m. Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Birmingham, the Storm Prediction Center has placed much of central Alabama under a Level 3 out of 5 severe weather risk, meaning scattered severe storms are likely. The primary hazards include damaging straight-line winds, brief tornadoes, and hail up to the size of quarters.
Storms are expected to move from west to east overnight. Communities near Fayette and Hamilton could see storms first between 8 p.m. and 1 a.m. The line may reach Tuscaloosa and Birmingham between 11 p.m. and 4 a.m., before continuing toward Auburn, Troy, and southeastern Alabama between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. Monday.
Drivers along Interstate 20/59, Interstate 65, and Interstate 459 may encounter sudden heavy rain, strong winds, and reduced visibility overnight as storms pass through the Birmingham metro area.
Residents should enable emergency alerts, charge mobile devices before bed, and identify a safe indoor shelter location in case warnings are issued during the overnight hours.
Additional severe thunderstorm or tornado watches may be issued Sunday evening as the storm system approaches Alabama.
