Severe weather possible Saturday in Alabama; here’s where and when
Damaging winds, heavy rain and a tornado can't be ruled out with today's multiple rounds of storms.
Mason Reed 
Alabama is bracing for a volatile Saturday as multiple rounds of rain and thunderstorms move across the state. With some storms expected to turn severe, 205focus.com is keeping a close eye on the latest forecast data to keep you informed.
Severe Weather Outlook
The NOAA Storm Prediction Center has officially expanded its reach, placing much of northeast Alabama under a Level 2 out of 5 severe weather risk. This area includes Huntsville, Gadsden, Fort Payne, Cullman, and the northeastern suburbs of Birmingham. A Level 1 risk, indicating the potential for isolated severe storms, currently covers the remainder of north and central Alabama. While south Alabama is not expected to see widespread severe weather today, residents across the region should stay alert.
Timing and Primary Threats
The National Weather Service notes that damaging winds and heavy rain are the primary hazards today. Additionally, there is a low-end risk for a tornado across north Alabama. While rain will be intermittent throughout the day, the strongest storm activity is anticipated to develop later this afternoon. Forecasters track a line of thunderstorms entering northwest Alabama around 3 p.m., moving eastward and clearing out by approximately 11 p.m.
Flash Flooding Concerns
Heavy rainfall is a major concern, with the Weather Prediction Center issuing a Level 2 out of 4 risk for flash flooding across the eastern two-thirds of the state. While widespread flooding is not currently anticipated, isolated flash flooding could occur where the heaviest downpours stall. Up to 3 inches of rain is possible in some areas. This follows a soggy Friday in the Tuscaloosa area, where heavy bursts of 3 to 4 inches of rain led to localized flash flooding and prompted several water rescues.
Looking Ahead
Expect rain chances to linger through the middle of next week, providing a slight buffer against extreme heat. However, the relief may be temporary; a ridge of high pressure is slated to build toward Alabama by late next week, which could push temperatures back into the mid-90s as we head into next weekend.
