Dangerous Storm System Threatens the South with Tornadoes, Hail, and Destructive Winds

Alabama is on high alert as a powerful storm system barrels toward the region, threatening to unleash devastating tornadoes, fierce winds, and giant hail through Saturday. Meteorologists at WVTM 13 have sounded the alarm, declaring Saturday, March 15, an Alert Day, meaning conditions could be life-threatening.

Severe Weather Timeline: What to Expect

The chaos is expected to arrive in two intense rounds. The first wave will hit North and Central Alabama early Saturday morning, possibly impacting later developments but unlikely to halt the primary threat. The main event is projected to kick off as early as 11 a.m., with storms intensifying into the afternoon and evening.

High-Impact Threats: Tornadoes, Hail & 70+ mph Winds

Saturday’s system is no ordinary storm—it carries a serious risk of tornadoes, some long-track and EF-2 or higher. These twisters could carve destructive paths exceeding 20 miles, making shelter plans a must. Meteorologists also warn of hurricane-force wind gusts over 70 mph and hail large enough to damage vehicles and homes.

The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued a chilling statement, confirming that a “tornado outbreak is likely” across the Gulf Coast, Deep South, and Tennessee Valley. Louisiana and Mississippi will be the first in the storm’s crosshairs, followed by Alabama, Georgia, and Florida through the evening.

Flooding Risk: Don’t Underestimate the Water

While the tornadoes grab headlines, another silent killer lurks—flash flooding. The Weather Prediction Center has flagged areas like Winston, Marion, Lamar, Walker, Blount, Cullman, and Etowah as high-risk zones. If you see water on the road, Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

Why Meteorologists Are Confident in a Major Outbreak

Unlike typical storm systems, this one checks every box for a classic Southern severe weather disaster:

• A powerful jet stream aligned in the perfect position.
• A rapidly intensifying low-pressure system near Interstate 40.
• A strong “low-level jet”—essentially a powerhouse of wind just above the surface.

Forecasters see no obvious failure points that could weaken this system. The “Energy Helicity Index”—a key indicator of storm rotation—suggests a dangerously balanced atmosphere, primed for supercells and tornadoes.

Prepare Now: The Clock is Ticking

With high certainty in this forecast, now is the time to plan for power outages, flash floods, and potential evacuations. Make sure you have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts and a reliable shelter plan if a tornado warning is issued. This could be one of the most dangerous weather events of the year.

Stay tuned for continuous updates as this storm system develops.