Stay Weather Alert

Spring Months Mean Potential for Severe Storms

Spring can be a wonderful time in Southeast Alabama with milder temperatures and longer days.

But April also holds the record for the highest occurrence of tornadoes in Alabama, as well as the highest number of strong tornadoes. April dates hold the top 2 spots for the most tornadoes spawned in a single day in Alabama, based on the National Weather Service’s storm tracking going back to 1925. The majority of Alabama’s tornadoes occur in the late afternoon and evening hours, regardless of the month.

The potential for late-evening and overnight storms makes the ability to receive storm warnings when you could be asleep that much more important. Local weather station apps, emergency management agencies, and national weather apps typically can send alerts to smartphones. A National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio will send out watch and warning alerts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Stay safe during the springtime severe weather with these tips from the SafeElectricity website:

• If severe weather is in the forecast, follow local weather reports and have multiple ways to receive storm warnings for your area.
• Keep your devices charged.
• If you hear thunder, stay indoors. Lightning can travel up to 10 miles away from a storm.
• Take shelter in the lowest level of a sturdy structure or in a windowless room.
• If you live in a mobile home, relocate to a safe structure if it is safe to do so.
• If you are outside after a storm and see any downed power lines, stay away and call 911. Do not drive over them.