Birmingham, Alabama – Severe thunderstorms could batter central and northern Alabama through 11 p.m. Thursday, with damaging winds up to 60 mph and large hail likely in areas including Birmingham, Jasper, and Gadsden.
According to the National Weather Service in Birmingham, a Level 3 (Enhanced) risk zone covers much of north-central Alabama, including Tuscaloosa and Fayette, where tall, fast-growing storms could produce significant wind damage and near-constant lightning. The threat will push southeast through the evening, hitting areas like Montgomery and Troy after 9 p.m.
Storms may knock down trees and power lines, and NWS urges residents to take all warnings seriously. “If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning,” the agency posted. Timing varies across the state, with western cities like Hamilton already under threat as of this afternoon.
Travelers should avoid flooded roads and stay off highways during peak storm hours. Residents are advised to charge devices, secure outdoor objects, and be ready for sudden power outages.
Storm warnings remain in effect statewide through 11 p.m., with more advisories possible into early Saturday morning.
