BIRMINGHAM, Alabama — Tornado probabilities across north and central Alabama have been formally upgraded for Wednesday, May 6, with the severe weather outlook now showing an Enhanced Risk Level 3 centered over Birmingham, Tuscaloosa, Huntsville and Gadsden and a 15 to 29 percent tornado probability with EF2 or stronger tornadoes specifically possible. The primary severe weather window runs from 5 PM Wednesday through 1 AM Thursday, meaning the most dangerous period extends well into the overnight hours when most residents will be asleep.
The Risk Zones
Enhanced Risk — Level 3 (Orange): The highest categorical risk covers the core of north and central Alabama, centered over Tuscaloosa and Birmingham and extending toward Decatur and Gadsden. This is a significant upgrade from earlier outlooks that had the area in a lower risk category.
Slight Risk — Level 2 (Yellow): Surrounds the Enhanced zone and covers a broader swath from Florence and Huntsville south through Montgomery, Auburn and Troy.
Marginal Risk — Level 1 (Green): Extends further outward toward Mobile and the state’s southern tier.
The Tornado Probability Breakdown
The tornado outlook map shows three distinct zones across Alabama:…