By Jim Stefkovich, Meteorologist, Alabama Emergency Management Agency
CLANTON – 11 am April 14, 2018 – A line of strong to severe thunderstorms is moving into the western portions of the state now. A tornado watch is in effect for a large portion of the western half of Alabama until 7 PM CDT, and will likely be extended both eastward and in expiration time later this afternoon.
Widespread severe weather event is shaping up for the state, mainly in the form of a broken line of storms moving from west to east, producing predominately straight-line wind damage. However, supercells may also develop ahead of the line and a few tornadoes could occur within the line as well.
A Flash Flood Watch is in effect until 1 am Sunday for the western half of Alabama, west of a Huntsville – Montgomery – Andalusia line. Widespread 2-4 inches are expected, with isolated amounts approaching six inches south of Livingston to Montgomery line.
Make sure you remain weather alert all of today into tonight, be able to receive warnings, and have an action plan to protect yourself and loved ones no matter where you are. If you plan to be out and about today, no matter where you are, ask yourself, “If a warning was issued right now, where would I find an interior room in a sturdy building?”
Also, with the heavy rain later today, make sure you don’t drive into flooded roads. It only takes around 18 inches of water for most vehicles to be lifted from the pavement and if the water is moving, you could be swept away.
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