A few severe storms possible Monday in Alabama; flooding a concern too
Level 1 risk for severe weather for part of the state today.
Ethan Parker 
Memorial Day in Alabama comes with a side of unsettled weather. Residents across the state should stay alert as we track a low-end severe weather threat alongside persistent, heavy rainfall that has prompted flood concerns.
Severe Weather Outlook
The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Level 1 out of 5 (marginal) risk for severe storms today, specifically targeting parts of west and south Alabama. While the risk remains low, the National Weather Service warns that isolated severe storms are possible.
Meteorologists are keeping a close eye on the western portion of the state, where stronger cells could produce damaging winds and the potential for a brief tornado. Officials noted that atmospheric conditions may allow for enough spin to support short-lived rotation in some showers or thunderstorms.
Flood Watches and Heavy Rain
Beyond the severe risk, heavy rain is the primary story for all of Alabama. With significant moisture moving through, authorities have issued flood watches across large sections of the state that will remain in effect through Tuesday evening.
The following areas are under a flood watch in north Alabama until 10 p.m. Tuesday: Cullman, Madison, Morgan, DeKalb, Jackson, and Marshall counties.
In central Alabama, a flood watch covers Autauga, Bibb, Blount, Calhoun, Cherokee, Chilton, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore, Etowah, Hale, Jefferson, Lowndes, Marengo, Montgomery, Perry, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Tuscaloosa, and Walker counties.
South Alabama is also on alert with a flood watch for Baldwin, Butler, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Covington, Crenshaw, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe, Washington, and Wilcox counties.
Total rainfall accumulations through Wednesday evening could reach up to 6 inches in isolated spots, particularly across southwest Alabama. While this wet pattern brings flooding concerns, it is expected to provide some relief to the state’s ongoing drought conditions. Most of Alabama has been struggling with drought, with the most severe Level 3 conditions previously reported in parts of the south. The next update from the U.S. Drought Monitor is expected this Thursday.
As 205focus.com continues to monitor the situation, be aware that the National Weather Service anticipates high rain chances to persist throughout the week and into the upcoming weekend.
