A tornado watch remains in effect until 6 p.m. CDT Sunday across parts of Alabama, Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle, putting almost 9 million residents on high alert.
The National Weather Service has issued a watch for major cities like Montgomery, Atlanta, Mobile, Pensacola, and Columbus. Scattered thunderstorms can produce isolated tornadoes, quarter-sized hail, and severe wind gusts of up to 70 mph (ca. 113 km/h). The watch area includes sections of central and southern Alabama, western and central Georgia, and the western Florida Panhandle.
Residents in vulnerable areas are advised to remain vigilant and to watch local weather broadcasts and smartphone notifications. According to NWS statistics, the tornado watch extends to 1,980 schools and 154 hospitals in the tri-state area.
Forecasters say the threat comes as a powerful spring storm system moves through the Southeast. While tornadoes are still probable, destructive straight-line winds and isolated hail pose more widespread hazards.
People living in mobile homes or older houses should plan ahead of time to locate nearby storm shelters. Emergency kits with flashlights, batteries, and weather radios are recommended for those living in high-risk areas.
The watch is expected to expire at 6 p.m. CDT, but more warnings may be issued depending on how the storm develops.
