Twenty million people in the southeastern United States are at risk of severe storms and tornadoes into Wednesday.
The National Weather Service is predicting severe thunderstorms with damaging winds and some strong tornadoes along the Gulf Coast from eastern Louisiana to Alabama.
In addition to the threat of strong tornadoes along the Gulf Coast, areas from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle and north to southern Tennessee, are at risk of tornadoes, widespread damaging winds and some large hail.
The Storm Prediction Center issued what’s known as a “particularly dangerous situation” tornado watch for areas of Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi.
Schools in parts of Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi announced early dismissal and some canceled classes in expectation of the storms.
If you live in or are traveling through the South, be prepared for storms that could produce tornadoes and have a plan to find safety. Be sure you have a way to get the latest severe watch and warning information.
Storm timing
Storms hit Texas early Tuesday and were expected to move to Louisiana, Arkansas and Mississippi into the evening hours. Alabama and southern Tennessee will likely see severe weather.
The Assumption Parish Sheriff Office reported severe damage to businesses in Paincourtville, Louisiana, and damage to a home in Belle River on Tuesday. There were no immediate reports of injuries, according to Deputy Robert Martin, after two tornadoes reportedly moved through the parish.
Wednesday, storms will continue through Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas and eastern Virginia.
Damaging winds will be the greatest threat, with the threat of tornadoes still possible though not as likely.
