Severe Storms Possible For Birmingham Area

BIRMINGHAM, AL — Heavy rain began falling in the Birmingham metro Monday morning, and the National Weather Service says the rain will continue into Tuesday, with the threat of severe weather possible.

The Storm Prediction Center has defined a slight risk (level 2 out of 5) of severe storms for parts of central and east Alabama Monday, with a marginal risk for much of the rest of the state. Tuesday, much of the state is in an enhanced risk (level 3 of 5), which extends as far south as Jackson, Greenville and Auburn.

The main threat with the heavier thunderstorms Monday will come from small hail and strong, gusty winds. Tuesday's outlook could be more severe.

"The air will become very unstable Tuesday afternoon across Alabama, and with an approaching upper trough and cold front numerous showers and storms will form by mid to late afternoon, continuing Tuesday night," meteorologist James Spann said. "These storms will be capable of producing large hail, damaging winds and a few tornadoes. The main window for severe thunderstorms will come from roughly 3 p.m. until 11 p.m."

Spann said rain amounts between Monday morning and late Tuesday night will be 2-3 inches for much of the state with a few isolated flooding issues could develop where heavier thunderstorms develop.

Tuesday's outlook: