AL Weather Latest: Tornadoes, Hail Possible This Weekend

BIRMINGHAM, AL — As the weekend approaches, Alabamians are asked to prepare for what might be a nasty weather weekend, with storms possibly producing hail, damaging winds and tornadoes.

The National Weather Service in Birmingham said strong to severe storms could enter west Alabama as early as 7 to 9 a.m. Saturday, and the threat should be over by Saturday evening. The NWS added that more specific information will be available by Thursday.

"Heavy rain is another concern; rain amounts Friday and Saturday will be in the 2- to 3-inch range; the ground is relatively saturated and flooding is very possible," said meteorologist James Spann. "Everyone will need a good, reliable way of getting severe weather warnings Saturday if they are needed."

Spann added, "Identify the safe place in your home. 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."