Storms That Strike Hard: Why Severe Thunderstorms Deserve Your Attention

February 3, 2026 Written by Shane Dorrill 2 min read
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Feb. 2-6 is Severe Weather Awareness Week in Alabama

Severe thunderstorms are among the most common and potentially dangerous weather events affecting Alabama, bringing risks such as large hail, damaging winds and frequent lightning.

Although thunderstorms can occur at any time of year, fewer than 1% reach severe levels — the kind capable of producing significant damage and threatening public safety. A thunderstorm becomes severe when it produces hail at least one inch in diameter — roughly the size of a quarter — or wind gusts of 58 mph or higher. These hazards can crack windshields, damage roofs, break large tree limbs and create dangerous debris.

Lightning, though present in all thunderstorms, is not what determines severity. In fact, severe storms may produce very little lightning, and some can generate tornadoes with minimal electrical activity.

Severe Thunderstorm Watches vs. Warnings

Understanding the difference between a watch and a warning is key to personal safety.

A severe thunderstorm watch means conditions are favorable for storms capable of producing large hail or damaging winds. It’s a signal to stay alert, monitor forecasts and be aware of changing weather. The National Weather Service usually issues severe thunderstorm watches for large geographic areas and for several hours at a time.

The graphic shows a map of Mississippi and Alabama with counties highlighted to show they were under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch.
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch can span several counties and even multiple states, like this one extending from west Mississippi to the Alabama-Georgia line.

A severe thunderstorm warning, however, means a dangerous storm is occurring or imminent. Warnings cover smaller geographic areas and typically last less than an hour, but they call for immediate action to protect life and property.

A map showing a portion of Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, that was under a Severe Thunderstorm Warning.
A portion of Tuscaloosa County, including The University of Alabama, was in this severe thunderstorm warning.

Know What To Do

A graphic that shows the difference between a Severe Thunderstorm Watch and a Severe Thunderstorm Warning. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued when a severe thunderstorm is possible. You should monitor weather conditions and know where to shelter if a warning is issued. You should be prepared. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when a severe thunderstorm is happening or about to happen. You should take shelter immediately. Take action! For more information visit ready.ua.edu.

When the National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm warning for the UA area, a UA Alert will notify you to seek shelter until the storm passes.

To ensure that you receive UA Alerts, make sure your contact information, especially your mobile phone number, is up to date in myBama.

For more information on severe weather in Alabama, visit the Office of Emergency Management’s website.

This story continues the series helping the UA community stay informed and prepared for severe weather throughout the year.