Tornado risk in Birmingham tonight: What you need to know + severe weather plan

The National Weather Service Birmingham Office is predicting a Level 3 Enhanced Risk storm system will  move through the Birmingham-metro area between Wednesday evening to Thursday morning.

According to NWS, an Enhanced Risk storm means there is an increased chance for tornadoes, hail and damaging winds.

Below is the NWS post about the storm that was issued on May 5th in the late afternoon.

In addition to damaging winds and possible tornadoes, Birmingham-area residents should prepare for possible flash flooding.

Do you have a severe weather plan Birmingham? Here are some tips

Earlier this spring, just in time for tornado season, Bham Now published a story sponsored by Jefferson County to help you prepare for severe weather.

Titled: Tornado season is here, Birmingham—3 must-haves you need in your kit — the County’s emergency response team recommended residents have the following three items ready to go when severe weather is in the forecast:

• A NOAA weather radio
  This is your most reliable way to receive alerts, especially overnight or during power outages.
• A fully charged cell phone (plus charger!)
  Your phone keeps you connected to emergency alerts, loved ones and 911 if needed. As someone whose phone is chronically about to die—take it as your sign to keep a charger handy just in case.
• A flashlight with working batteries
  If the power goes out (especially after dark) you’ll need a safe, reliable light source.

And of course dust off your severe weather plan/checklist.