Francine On the Move: Expect Rain, Winds, & Tornadoes in Alabama

As Francine heads into Mississippi, severe weather threats will be felt across Alabama.

Get our free mobile app

“Louisiana woke up to flooded roads and snapped trees, with hundreds of thousands still in the dark due to power outages Thursday morning,” said The Weather Channel.

Francine, now a weakening tropical low, could pose issues for Alabamians today and into tomorrow.

Rain Profile

A flash flood watch is currently active across much of Alabama.

The National Weather Service in Birmingham said that Central Alabama, including West Alabama, could receive 3 to 6 inches of rain, with some areas receiving 6 inches. This concern for flooding goes through Friday evening.

The weather system is forecasted to stall close to Memphis, which could lead to higher rain totals for North Alabama.

Wind Outlook

There is a wind advisory for much of Alabama. Residents should be aware that gradient winds could range between 30 to 40 mph, while the Western portion of the state could see higher gusts.

Possible Tornadoes

James Spann, ABC 33/40, and Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Chief Meteorologist said, “If sufficient instability can develop, a tornado or two can't be ruled out. The main window comes from about 10:00 this morning through 8:00 tonight.”

Today, The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) has issued a “slight risk” for a middle core area of Alabama and a “marginal risk” for the rest of the state.

Highlight from the National Weather Service in Birmingham

Tornado Today: 

• What: Brief tornado possible
• Where: All of central Alabama
• When: 11 AM to Midnight

Tomorrow, the SPC has placed North and East Alabama at a “marginal risk” due to the possibility of isolated tornadoes.

Highlight from the National Weather Service in Birmingham

Tornado Tomorrow: 

• What: Brief tornado possible
• Where: Eastern 2/3rds of central Alabama
• When: 1 PM through 11 PM

“Remember, tornadoes produced by a tropical system are typically short-lived and on the low end of the EF scale, but they are still dangerous, and we will be watching radar trends closely,” said Spann.