By Jeff Devine, Dale County Chronicle
The National Weather Service has issued a severe weather alert for parts of southeast Alabama, southwest Georgia, and the western Florida Panhandle as a line of strong to potentially severe storms is expected to move through late tonight into Thursday.
Meteorologists say a squall line associated with a passing disturbance early Thursday morning could produce damaging winds ranging from 50 to 70 mph. While the line is forecast to weaken as it moves east, officials warn that isolated tornadoes remain possible, particularly across southeast Alabama and the Florida Panhandle.
Timing for the storms is expected to begin around 1-2 a.m. Central Time in southeast Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, with the most likely arrival between 3-5 a.m. The system is forecast to continue moving eastward, reaching the eastern Florida Big Bend by early to mid-afternoon, around 1-2 p.m. Eastern Time.
The Storm Prediction Center has issued a marginal risk (level 1 of 5) for much of the area, with a slight risk (level 2 of 5) extending eastward overnight. Officials encourage residents to stay alert, secure outdoor items, and review safety plans in case severe weather strikes.
Authorities advise monitoring local weather updates and taking immediate action if severe weather warnings are issued.
