|
Event Summary for Central Alabama
Six tornadoes and hail up to 3 inches in diameter affected the northern areas of Central Alabama on the afternoon and evening hours of March 19th, with a rare PDS (Particularly Dangerous Situation) Tornado Watch issued for a large chunk of Central Alabama. An environment favorable for significant severe thunderstorms developed as a low-amplitude upper-level trough moved into the region and a weak surface low passed by toward the north. These two features resulted in a deep column of wind shear. Additionally, moist southerly flow, warm surface temperatures, and colder temperatures aloft yielded a moderately unstable air mass. The evolution of the atmosphere in Central Alabama was captured through several special weather balloon releases by the NWS Birmingham office. Weather research teams were also working on the ground and in the air across North Alabama, collecting data that helped short-term forecasting and warning operations, but also for future studies.
Initially, thunderstorms were producing large to very large hail. However, the tornado threat ramped up into the late-afternoon and evening hours as wind speeds at low levels increased with the arrival of a low-level jet. Additional severe thunderstorms produced large hail and tornadoes during the evening, mainly focused across the northeastern portions of Central Alabama. The worst storm of the event was a cyclic supercell that produced three separate tornadoes, with tracks stretching from near Ashville to and beyond the Georgia state line. One of those tornadoes was significant and long-track, producing EF-3 damage to structures at several points along its path. Thankfully, there were no fatalities with this storm system, and limited injuries. We credit this to the residents of Central Alabama heeding watches and warnings issued during the event, which was forecast five days in advance.
The information contained below is from the 6 individual tornado tracks that occurred. The data is PRELIMINARY and may be subject to change.
|
Follow us on Twitter
Follow us on Facebook
Follow us on YouTube
BMX RSS Feed