Hey, Southern Alabama and the Florida Panhandle, if you’ve got plans to be out and about today, stop and check the weather. We’re facing a pretty intense storm, and it’s going to hit hard, bringing damaging winds and the possibility of hail. The storm is expected to last until 1 PM CDT, and this is one you won’t want to take lightly.
If you’re in places like Pensacola, Mobile, Dothan, Tallahassee, or Fort Walton Beach, buckle up—things are about to get rough. Here’s everything you need to know to stay safe and prepared.
What’s Going On?
A strong storm system is making its way through the area, and it’s packing some serious punch. Wind gusts could reach up to 60 MPH, and there’s a good chance of hail hitting the ground along with it. These winds could cause major disruptions—knocking down trees, power lines, and sending debris flying. Even if you’re used to storms, this one could catch you off guard if you’re not paying attention.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the threats:
1. Damaging Winds (Up to 60 MPH)
Expect strong winds to sweep through the region, with gusts up to 60 MPH. These winds are strong enough to cause some real damage—like taking down trees, breaking windows, and knocking out power. Driving will be dangerous, especially if you’re on the road during the worst of it. Winds like this can blow debris around, and that could be more dangerous than it seems.
2. Hail
Along with the gusty winds, there’s also the risk of hail. It might not sound like much, but hail can do a lot of damage. Even small stones can break windows or dent cars, while larger hail could do real harm to roofs and crops. If you hear that sharp sound of hail hitting your roof or windows, take cover inside immediately.
Where’s the Storm Hitting Hardest?
This storm is focused on a few areas in particular, so if you’re in one of these spots, keep a close eye on the weather:
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Pensacola, FL
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Mobile, AL
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Dothan, AL
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Tallahassee, FL
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Fort Walton Beach, FL
These areas will see the worst of the storm, and it’s expected to hit hard until 1 PM CDT. However, even if you’re outside the direct path, you still need to be prepared. Storms like this can be unpredictable and spread out, so don’t think you’re safe just because you’re not in the bullseye.
How to Stay Safe
When the weather gets wild, staying safe should be your top priority. Here are a few tips to help you stay out of harm’s way:
1. Stay Inside
It’s tempting to peek outside or take a quick trip somewhere, but trust me—stay indoors. Wind and hail can cause serious damage, and it’s just not worth the risk to be out there. If you’re outside when it hits, find shelter immediately and stay away from windows. Flying debris can be dangerous, and windows can easily shatter.
2. Secure Loose Objects
If you’ve got anything outside—like patio furniture, grills, or bicycles—now is the time to secure it. The winds will pick up anything that isn’t nailed down and turn it into a projectile. Bring things inside or tie them down if you can. Better safe than sorry!
3. Be Ready for Power Outages
Winds this strong are likely to take down power lines, and power outages are a real risk. Make sure you’ve got your phones charged, and gather any flashlights, batteries, or candles you might need. If you rely on medical devices that need electricity, make sure you have a backup plan. And please, avoid using candles if possible—they’re a fire hazard.
4. Protect Your Car
If you can, move your car into a garage or covered area to protect it from the hail. Hail can easily cause dents or broken windows, so it’s worth making the effort to shield your vehicle from the storm. If you can’t park in a garage, try to find a spot that’s as sheltered as possible, away from trees or power lines that might fall.
5. Stay Informed
It’s crucial to stay updated on the weather. Make sure you’re following local weather alerts, whether through your phone, TV, or radio. Storms like this can change quickly, so knowing what’s coming next could make all the difference. Set up weather notifications on your phone so you’re always in the loop.
What Happens After 1 PM?
While the worst of the storm should ease up after 1 PM CDT, the danger isn’t completely gone. There could still be downed trees, power outages, and flooding from heavy rain in the aftermath. Stay cautious, and if you need to go out, be on the lookout for any debris or standing water.
