Potentially Dangerous Storms Headed To Alabama: What To Know

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Alabama will likely see a severe weather event Wednesday, which is expected to bring heavy rain and possible tornadoes to a large portion of the state.

The National Weather Service has placed a significant part of the state in a "moderate risk" (level 4/5) category. This includes Birmingham, Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, Anniston, Gadsden and Florence. The rest of the state is in either an enhanced or slight risk.

"A compact/vigorous upper low initially over the Oklahoma area is forecast to move steadily eastward through the day, spreading strong flow aloft and a broad zone of enhanced ascent across the Deep South," meteorologist James Spann said Tuesday. "This, combined with unstable air and high shear values, will set the stage for strong to severe thunderstorms."

Spann said scattered storms could form Wednesday afternoon, but the main band of organized thunderstorms will come Wednesday night into early Thursday morning.

"Storms will be capable of producing large hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes," Spann said. "A few strong and violent long track tornadoes are possible."

Tuesday will include heavy rain as well throughout most of the state. Showers and storms will persist through much of the day, placing the state in a "marginal risk" of severe thunderstorms. Heavier thunderstorms will be capable of producing small hail and strong gusty winds, Spann said.