National Weather Service: Saturday Storms In Alabama By 10 A.M.

BIRMINGHAM, AL — The expectation of severe weather this Saturday is becoming more likely as the weekend nears, and the National Weather Service in Birmingham is urging Alabamians to "make plans now for Saturday."

The NWS Birmingham said the timing for the storms for the state is 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, hitting the Birmingham area between noon and 6 p.m. with damaging winds up to 70 mph and tornadoes as the main threats. A Wind Advisory is now in effect from 12 a.m. Saturday to 9 p.m. Saturday for all of Central Alabama. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph ahead of the approaching storm system

"Based on the forecast parameters, a few strong tornadoes (EF2 or higher) can’t be ruled out," said meteorologist James Spann. "Also, some hail is possible with the heavier thunderstorms. Away from thunderstorms, pressure gradient winds will be fairly robust during the day; expect a south wind averaging 15-25 mph with higher gusts."

"Identify the safe place in your home," Spann added. "In a site-built home, it is a small room on the lowest floor, near the center of the home and away from windows. Be sure everybody in the family knows where that safe place is, and in that room you need helmets for everyone in your family. We also recommend having a portable air horn for everyone, as well as hard-soled shoes. If you live in a mobile home, you cannot stay there if you are in a tornado warning polygon. Know the location of the nearest shelter or site-built structure that is available."