Florence, AL – A Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect for Lauderdale and Colbert counties until midnight Friday, as strong storms push across northwest Alabama. The National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center warns that residents could experience damaging winds, frequent lightning, and heavy downpours during the late evening hours.
What to Expect Tonight
Storms are expected to intensify through the evening, especially across the Tennessee Valley, before gradually weakening overnight. Communities affected include:
Florence
Muscle Shoals
Tuscumbia
Killen
Surrounding areas
Key threats include:
Wind gusts over 60 mph
Lightning strikes
Localized power outages
Poor driving conditions on U.S. 72 and I-65
Travel and Outdoor Safety Tips
Emergency officials are advising residents to take the following precautions:
Avoid driving during heavy rain, especially on highways and major routes
Move indoors at the first sound of thunder
Secure outdoor items like trash bins, patio furniture, or grills
Monitor local weather alerts in case watches are upgraded to warnings
Falling tree limbs and scattered power outages are possible, particularly in areas with mature trees or older power infrastructure.
What’s Next
The severe storm risk is expected to ease after midnight, but additional storms are possible this weekend, depending on shifting weather patterns. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local weather apps, TV news, or NOAA Weather Radio.
