Alabama residents braced for severe weather as a powerful storm system moved through the state on December 28 and 29, 2024. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Tornado Watch for Northern and Central Alabama, including parts of Northeast Mississippi, effective from 8:10 PM CST on December 28 until 4:00 AM CST on December 29.
The watch area encompassed numerous counties, including Jefferson, Madison, and Mobile, among others. Residents were advised to remain vigilant and prepared for potential severe weather, including tornadoes, damaging winds, and hail.
As the storm system advanced, the NWS issued a Tornado Warning for Northwestern Mobile County in southwestern Alabama and East Central George County in southeastern Mississippi until 11:00 PM CST on December 28. At 10:29 PM CST, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 5 miles northwest of Wilmer, moving east at 30 mph.
The severe weather outbreak was part of a larger system affecting the Gulf states, with particularly dangerous tornadoes reported in Texas, resulting in fatalities and significant damage according to AP News.
The system moved eastward, bringing severe weather to Alabama and other southeastern states.
In response to the escalating threat, local emergency management agencies activated their severe weather response plans, coordinating with the NWS to disseminate timely information to the public. Residents were urged to monitor local weather updates, have emergency kits ready, and identify safe locations in their homes in case of a tornado warning.
By the morning of December 29, the severe weather threat had diminished as the storm system moved out of the region. While the immediate danger had passed, authorities continued to assess the situation, focusing on damage reports and ensuring public safety.
This event underscores the importance of preparedness and staying informed during severe weather events. Alabama residents are encouraged to review their emergency plans, ensure they have access to reliable weather information, and remain vigilant during future severe weather events.
ABC News also encouraged residents to think of loved ones, recommending readers to “take the time to share important weather information (especially tornado warnings) with family and friends with a text or phone call. You could be the only warning they get.”
For real-time updates and detailed information, residents are advised to follow local weather services and the National Weather Service.
