The National Weather Service (NWS) held a Special Weather Briefing today in reference to the potential for severe weather this Saturday, January 11.

A line of severe storms is expected to enter the state Saturday afternoon and evening.  The main impacts are forecast to be damaging winds, embedded tornadoes and heavy rainfall.

All of eastern Alabama and portions of Carroll County are included in an “Enhanced Risk” (Level 3 out of 5) for severe weather.  The remainder of Carroll County and all of West Georgia is included in the “Slight Risk” (Level 2 out of 5) for severe weather.

Timing – East Alabama severe weather is forecast for 12:00 noon to 3:00 pm (EST) and for West Georgia including Carroll and Haralson County is 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Tornadoes – An enhanced Tornado threat is forecast for East Alabama and a small portion of West Georgia along the state line.  This enhanced area could include long track tornadoes as the system moves east.

Wind – Wind gusts will be as high as 40 mph outside of any thunderstorms.  Wind gusts in excess of 70 mph could occur within severe thunderstorms.

Rain – Widespread 0.5” to 1.5” with isolated heaver amounts possible.  An additional 2-3 inches of rainfall is forecast for our Monday and Tuesday.

Please see the attached slides for additional graphical information including the areas of higher potential for severe weather.
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