Birmingham, AL – Severe weather threats are poised to disrupt holiday plans across Central Alabama, with tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail expected from Saturday afternoon into early Sunday. Residents along I-20 should prepare for potential delays and dangerous conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Birmingham, the highest risk occurs late Saturday into early Sunday, when storms are expected to intensify. A Level 2/5 risk is in effect Friday afternoon, increasing to a Level 3/5 by Saturday evening. These storms could bring wind gusts up to 60 mph, hail up to a quarter inch in diameter, and isolated tornadoes.
Travelers are urged to monitor weather alerts closely and avoid unnecessary travel during peak storm hours. Ensure your mobile devices are charged and emergency kits are stocked. “Having multiple ways to receive alerts is critical,” NWS advised. The storm window begins as early as 3 p.m. Saturday and stretches through 8 a.m. Sunday.
Saturday morning may bring patchy fog, clearing into a humid afternoon with highs near 68°F. Heavy rain is expected to intensify into the evening hours. Rainfall totals could reach one inch or higher in some areas, creating localized flooding risks on low-lying roads.
The extended forecast predicts clearer skies by Sunday afternoon, with temperatures cooling to the mid-60s. Monday brings partly sunny skies, providing a break from the storms.
