Tornadoes, Damaging Winds Possible Next Week in Central Alabama

Don’t forget that we are in tornado season which in our area runs from November through May. The National Weather Service in Birmingham has provided an ample heads up for the possibility of severe weather on Thursday, February 17, 2022.

Where:

All of central AL

Threats:

Damaging winds

Tornado

James Spann, ABC 33/40, and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist said that he is “seeing strong signals in global models that strong to severe thunderstorms will be possible across Alabama and the Deep South next Thursday, February 17. It is way too early to be really specific, but be aware it looks like an active weather day with all modes of severe weather possible.”

We will be closely monitoring this dynamic storm system over the next several days and issue the necessary updates as information, timing, and threat levels could change this far in advance. However, NOW is a great time to review your safety plans for you, your family, and even at your workplace while the weather is nice and calm.

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Be sure you understand the difference between a Tornado Watch and a Tornado Warning. A great way to remember the difference is for a Tornado Watch is the time to prepare and stay weather aware. A Tornado Warning is the time to act.

Tornado Watch

WATCH = BE ALERT

Tornado Warning

WARNING = TAKE ACTION

According to the National Weather Service, they issue a TORNADO WATCH “when severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible in and near the watch area. It does not mean that they will occur. It only means they are possible. Severe thunderstorms are defined as 1) Winds of 58 mph or higher AND/OR 2) Hail 1 inch in diameter or larger.” A TORNADO WARNING is “issued when a tornado is imminent. When a tornado warning is issued, seek safe shelter immediately.”

(Source) Click here to follow the Facebook Page for James Spann. For more from the National Weather Service Birmingham, click here.