At 1:04 AM CDT, Doppler radar detected strong thunderstorms moving east at 45 mph in southeastern Tuscaloosa, central Bibb, and southern Jefferson counties. These storms could bring wind gusts of up to 50 mph, potentially causing tree limbs to fall and unsecured objects to blow around. Locations such as Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Bessemer, and others may be impacted.
A Tornado Watch is in effect until 4 AM CDT for central and west central Alabama.
Additionally, a Wind Advisory is now effective until 7 PM CDT, with west winds of 10 to 20 mph and gusts up to 40 mph. A Freeze Warning is also in place from 10 PM to 10 AM CDT, with temperatures as low as 23 degrees in the north and 28 degrees in the south expected. Gusty winds could lead to unsecured objects being blown around, trees falling, power outages, and possible crop and vegetation damage.
Residents are advised to take precautions, secure outdoor objects, protect plants from the cold, and prevent freezing and bursting of pipes by wrapping, draining, or allowing them to drip slowly. Those with in-ground sprinkler systems should also take measures to prevent freezing.
