Birmingham, Alabama – A line of strong storms is sweeping across north and central Alabama this afternoon, bringing the threat of damaging winds, lightning, and large hail to nearly 30 counties under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 6 p.m. Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes major population centers such as Birmingham, Huntsville, Tuscaloosa, and Gadsden. Winds may reach up to 60 mph with isolated hail and frequent lightning likely in storms developing along a warm, unstable air mass.
Cities like Cullman, Madison, and Shelby are likely to see impacts on outdoor plans and local travel, with the risk of downed trees and temporary power outages. Jefferson County EMA advises residents to secure loose outdoor items and avoid travel during active storms. Heavy rainfall could also lead to localized flooding in low-lying areas, especially along I-65 and U.S. Highway 78.
Saturday’s storm activity comes amid a humid early June pattern, typical for Alabama but still dangerous due to the rapid intensification of cells.
The Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until 6 p.m., with additional warnings possible as storms track eastward through the evening.
