BIRMINGHAM, AL (WBRC) -
Thunderstorms, heavy rain and lightning are moving across north and central Alabama, prompting the National Weather Service to issue severe thunderstorm warnings and flood advisories.
"The storms are intense with very heavy rainfall, lightning, and a few wind gusts that could blow some trees down (mainly in east Alabama). Severe thunderstorm warnings have been issued NE of Birmingham. Winds were high when the strongest storms came through Trussville about 11:30 a.m., and lightning is still intense," Dr. Tim Coleman posted just before noon on the Fox 6 weather blog.
The NWS has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Calhoun, Shelby, St. Clair & Talladega Counties until 12:15 p.m.
The NWS also issued a flood advisory for minor flooding southeast Blount County, Jefferson County, Shelby County and St. Clair County. The advisory is in effect until 1:15 p.m.
Cities that could be impacted by flooding in poor drainage areas include Trussville, Vestavia Hills, Hoover, Homewood, Birmingham, Bessemer, Pelham, Alabaster, Chelsea, Helena, Springville, Pell City and Moody.
Flooded streets have been reported in Jefferson and Shelby counties. Some areas are experiencing rain rates of more than one inch per hour.
Drivers are urged to be cautious and stay away from water-covered roads.
For continuing severe weather updates, visit www.myfoxstorm.com.
SEVERE WEATHER ALERTS
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RADIO
You can get severe weather updates, including live FOX6 severe weather coverage, on the following Clear Channel radio stations in west and central Alabama:
Tuscaloosa: 94.1 ZBQ, 98.1 TXT, News Radio 105.9, and WACT 1420 AM
Birmingham: Magic 96.5, 102.5 The Bull, 103.7 The Q, & News Radio 105.5 WERC
WEATHER PICTURES
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Flood advisories have been issued for Blount County, Jefferson County, Shelby County and St. Clair County.
Flooding on 31st Street North in Birmingham. Source: WBRC video
Cars drive through the flooded road on 31st Street North in Birmingham. Source: WBRC video
Strong winds downed a tree on Valley View Drive, the road that leads to the Fox 6 WBRC station. Source: WBRC video
