From The Tribune staff reports
BIRMINGHAM — The National Weather Service in Birmingham is expecting a significant weather event from Thursday afternoon and evening, from 1 p.m. – 11 p.m., the The Tribune coverage area. The greatest threat is expected to be near and northwest of Interstate 59.
Strong tornadoes, damaging winds and large hail will be possible in those areas, although all of Alabama should be weather-aware, as the system could produce heavy rainfall and storms across the state.
Additionally, some counties in west Alabama are at a high risk and could experience tornadoes and damaging winds of up to 8- mph.
A wind advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. until 10 p.m. for most of central Alabama. Wind gusts of up to 40 mph could occur in these areas throughout the day.
Some organizations and schools have announced early closures:
Center Point offices and facilities closed.
Pell City Schools dismissing at 1:30 p.m.
Trussville City offices and facilities close at 12 p.m.
Trussville Municipal Court docket set for Thursday, March 25th, 2021, at 12:00 p.m. is hereby continued until Thursday, June 24, 2021, at 12:00 p.m.
ALEA Driver License Offices will be closed due to inclement weather:
- Jasper Office located in the Walker County Courthouse (Closed at 10 a.m.)
- Centreville Office located in the Bibb County Courthouse (Closed at 11 a.m.)
- Oneonta Office located in the Blount County Courthouse (12 p.m.)
- Linden Office located in the Marengo County Courthouse (12 p.m.)
- Scottsboro Office located in the Jackson County Courthouse (2 p.m.)
- Cullman Office located in the Cullman County Courthouse (Closed at 9 a.m.)
This list will be updated if more early dismissals or closures are announced.
Everyone in central Alabama should ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and alerts. Be sure to have a plan that includes where to go when your area is in the polygon. It is recommended to find a place indoors, on the lowest floor and away from windows, preferably in the center of the structure. Be sure to have a helmet, shoes or boots and a whistle. The whistle will help alert first responders if you become trapped in debris.