Montgomery, AL – A tornado watch is in effect until 6 p.m. CDT Sunday in parts of Alabama, Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle, putting nearly 9 million people on high alert.
The National Weather Service has issued a watch for major cities including Montgomery, Atlanta, Mobile, Pensacola, and Columbus.
Scattered thunderstorms can produce isolated tornadoes, quarter-sized hail, and damaging wind gusts of up to 70 mph.
The watch area includes parts of central and southern Alabama, western and central Georgia, and the western Florida Panhandle.
Residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and to monitor local weather broadcasts and mobile alerts.
According to NWS data, 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 possible, damaging straight-line winds and localized hail pose more widespread threats.
People living in mobile homes or older structures should plan ahead of time to locate nearby storm shelters.
Emergency kits containing 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 additional warnings may be issued depending on how the storm develops.
