Alabama Severe Weather Update: Wind Advisory and Tornado Risks Ahead

Alabama is under a wind advisory as a squall line brings severe weather, including potential tornadoes and high winds. Conditions show clearing with rising temperatures and gusty winds. Residents are urged to prepare for damaging winds and remain vigilant as storms approach tonight.

A radar check conducted just after noon indicated that the squall line extended from southern Arkansas into central and southwest Louisiana. Severe thunderstorm warnings were issued spanning Monticello, AR, to Monroe, LA, and near Leesville and Alexandria, LA, to DeQuincy, LA. A confirmed tornado approached Alexandria approximately 30 minutes ago, but the storm has since weakened. A tornado warning is now in effect near Pollock, north of Alexandria, with winds at Alexandria International Airport gusting to 45 mph from the south-southeast.

Conditions in Alabama are exhibiting some clearing at this hour, with an inversion present around 10,000 feet. Temperatures are rising into the upper 60s and lower 70s, alongside dew points increasing to the upper 40s and lower 50s. Wind gusts are reported at 42 mph at Huntsville International, 25 mph at Birmingham, and 35 mph at Greenville in Butler County.

Alabama is currently under a Wind Advisory valid through Wednesday afternoon due to a strengthening surface low, which is enhancing the pressure gradient in the region. Winds outside of thunderstorms are already gusting between 30 and 40 mph, with potential gusts reaching 45 mph later today, posing risks of downed power lines and tree limbs. Residents are advised to secure loose outdoor items.

The Storm Prediction Center has announced that a tornado watch will soon be issued for the southern two-thirds of Mississippi and much of southeastern Louisiana. With rising dew points in the low to mid-60s, rapid destabilization is occurring. A wind gust of 61 knots was recorded at KPOE, emphasizing the system’s intensity. The highest instability will be located south of Interstate 20 in Mississippi, resulting in increased chances for embedded tornadoes within the storm line.

The rapidly advancing line of storms is forecast to enter northwest Alabama between 6 PM and 7 PM, quickly moving through the state and exiting southeast Alabama by 1 AM. The primary threat consists of damaging straight-line winds; nonetheless, isolated tornadoes may occur, particularly in southwest Alabama, where the Storm Prediction Center has issued an Enhanced Risk (level 3/5). The greatest risk for significant tornadoes exists along a line from Livingston to Linden, Beatrice, and Evergreen.

While the overall instability across the state is limited, strong wind shear could still result in embedded tornadoes within the line and potential for stronger storm development, particularly in the southwest. Wind gusts could exceed 60 mph within the squall line, leading to power outages and downed vegetation.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant as severe weather approaches this evening. It is advised to have multiple channels to receive warnings, including NOAA Weather Radio, Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA), the AlabamaWX Blog, and coverage from ABC3340, particularly from Chief Meteorologist James Spann. Charging electronic devices in preparation for possible outages and having a severe weather plan, especially for those in manufactured homes, is highly recommended.

In summary, Alabama is currently experiencing a considerable weather event with a squall line producing severe thunderstorms and potential tornadoes. Wind Advisories are in effect across the region, and residents should take precautions against high winds and possible severe weather. Continued awareness and preparation are crucial as the storm system approaches during the evening hours.

Original Source: www.alabamawx.com