Hurricane Ida Prompts Flash Flood Watch For Most Of Alabama

BIRMINGHAM, AL — As Hurricane Ida hits the Gulf coast, Alabama is bracing Monday for possible flash flooding, as heavy rain is expected for most of the state over the next 24 hours.

The National Weather Service in Birmingham issued a flash flood watch for most of the state, and a tropical storm warning for the southwestern portion of Alabama. The flash flood watch is in effect for most of Alabama through Tuesday, with the exception of the northeast and southeast corners of the state.

"Rain amounts of 2-4 inches are likely over the western half of the state, with 1-3 inches for east Alabama through Tuesday night," meteorologist James Spann said. "If you live in a flood-prone area, pay close attention to flash flood warnings if they are issued."

What to Expect in Birmingham

"A few isolated, brief tornadoes are possible over most of Alabama later today and tonight," Spann said. "Keep in mind the tornadoes associated with tropical systems are usually short-lived and low-topped (literally under the radar). This means they can get down with little or no warning, so be very weather aware."

Spann added that the highest probability of a tornado Monday is over the southwest part of the state, where the Storm Prediction Center has a slight risk (level 2 of 5) defined. A marginal risk (level 1 of 5) has been issued for the rest of the state, including the Birmingham metro.

Danita Ryan, Deputy Director of the Department of Public Works for the City of Birmingham, said construction crews are clearing out drains and inlets in preparation for the rain, and to help prevent flooding.

"Rain will end from west to east Tuesday night and Wednesday morning as Ida moves away from the state; the sky becomes partly sunny Wednesday afternoon," Spann said.