By Jim Stefkovich, Meteorologist, Alabama Emergency Management Agency
CLANTON – Monday, 2:00 pm November 20, 2023
A potent storm system will move through the state in the form of a line of thunderstorms from late this evening through Tuesday afternoon. Ahead of the line, southerly winds will be on the increase today. By sunset, gusts will be approaching 30 mph in the southern sections of the state, up to 40 mph in the central sections and up to 50 mph in the northern areas. This could down trees and cause power outages before the storms arrive.
The latest timing and threat area is shown in the graphic above. Minor changes to timing (faster arrival and exit time) have been made. In addition, the southern half of the state has been upgraded to Slight Risk as indications are that instability will be a littler higher than previously forecast leading to more severe storms.
The western sections and southern half of the state will have the highest threats of damaging wind gusts and a few tornadoes. Supercells are possible both ahead of and embedded within a line of storms that will move through the state beginning this evening and exiting the southeastern sections mid to late Tuesday afternoon.
Total statewide rainfall amounts will be 1-3 inches with locally higher amounts.
Behind the line of storms, wind gusts through Tuesday afternoon will be 15-30 mph.
Now is the time to look at your severe weather plan and get ready for more severe weather through this spring. Go to Severe Weather | Ready.gov for more information. Make sure you have at least two methods to receive severe weather information that will wake you up in the middle of the night, one of which is NOT an outdoor siren.
Finally, if you haven’t done so in a while, now is the time to change the batteries on your NOAA Weather Radio.
It is important to stay informed and take precautions during this severe weather threat. Stay tuned to weather updates and be prepared with emergency supplies. Avoid unnecessary travel and seek shelter if necessary. Safety should be the top priority during this potentially dangerous weather event. Stay safe and stay alert.