The March 25, 2021 , 5:00a.m. forecast via the NWS Birmingham Office

Be prepared Birmingham. Today, the Storm Prediction Center has upgraded the severe weather potential for most of Northwest and Central Alabama to “High Risk,” it’s highest severe and dangerous weather threat level.

The last time a “High Risk” prediction was issued in Northern and Central Alabama was in April of 2014, according to the U.S. National Weather Service Huntsville Office.

Be Prepared

Are you ready for possible severe weather ? I’ve got my helmets and basement ready. Photo of Bham Now’s Pat Byington.

This is the third wave of dangerous storms to strike the Birmingham area since late January when late night tornadoes hit Fultondale and Center Point.

Last week on St. Patrick’s Day, the city of Gardendale and several rural communities in the Birmingham metro area received tornado and storm damage. The event was the 6th biggest tornado outbreak in Alabama history.

We know the drill. Prepare now.

Here is one of the best websites to prepare you for tornadoes and severe weather:

A quick checklist:

Start Charging Electronics: Remember to start charging your electronics – phones, laptops, radios etc… so you can watch the weather even if the power goes out.
Create a Communications Plan: Have a family plan that includes an emergency meeting place and related information. If you live in a mobile home or home without a basement, identify a nearby safe building you can get too quickly, such as a church or family member.
Pick a safe room in your home, such as a basement, storm cellar, or an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows. Check more ideas for your family plan at: https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan
Practice Your Plan: Conduct a family severe thunderstorm drill regularly so everyone knows what to do if a tornado is approaching. Make sure all members of your family know to go there when tornado warnings are issued. Don’t forget pets if time allows.

Need more? Bham Now published in 2020 a detailed severe weather checklist. Read it – HERE.

Follow Local Media & NWS Offices

Jacksonville State University tornado damage in 2018. Photo by Pete Conroy

Along with our local television stations, we encourage folks to follow on social media the U.S. National Weather Service Office in your community for the latest updates.

Stay safe and weather aware all today till midnight.