The following is from the National Weather Service
A strong storm system is set to impact the Eastern U.S. this weekend, bringing the potential for severe weather and flooding to east Alabama and west Georgia. The storm will move through the region late Saturday into early Sunday, with the highest risks occurring overnight.
Severe Weather and Flooding Risks
• Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) for Severe Weather: The primary hazard will be damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, with a lower chance of a brief tornado.
• Slight Risk (Level 2 of 4) for Flash Flooding: Saturated soils from recent heavy rainfall will increase the risk of flooding, especially during the heaviest rain Sunday morning.
• River Flooding Threat: Rivers that have recently been receding could rise back to flood stage, with flooding impacts possibly lingering into early next week.
Timing and Affected Areas
• Severe weather and flash flooding risk: Peak timing is between 2:00 A.M. and 10:00 A.M. Sunday.
River flooding: May develop more slowly and persist into next week.
• Greatest severe weather risk: East Alabama and west Georgia.
• Flooding concerns: Highest along and north of Interstate 85.
Potential Impacts
• Nocturnal Tornado Threat: Tornadoes occurring at night pose a higher risk, as they are harder to detect and respond to.
• Strong Winds and Downed Trees: Wind gusts, combined with saturated soil, could lead to fallen trees and power lines.
• Rising Rivers: Rivers that were previously falling could reach flood stage again, causing additional flooding concerns.
Forecast Confidence
• Moderate confidence in the potential for severe weather.
• Moderate confidence in additional flooding risks.
Residents in the affected areas should stay weather-aware, especially overnight, and have multiple ways to receive weather alerts. Flashlights, batteries, and emergency plans should be in place in case of power outages or dangerous conditions. Stay tuned to local forecasts for updates.
