Severe weather threat looms along coast

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The image of the Christmas Day tornado is engraved in many minds, as is the damage that followed.

“Downtown Mobile during the Christmas Day tornado, a lot of those homes major structural damage was caused by trees going over onto a lot of those homes,” said Jeff Garmon with the National Weather Service. “I saw several living rooms that were flattened by trees, large trees falling into the home. I think people need to be aware that trees can kill.”

Garmon said strong winds Wednesday, January 30 may knock down tress, power lines and damage homes. He said there’s also a small possibility of seeing hail and brief isolated tornadoes.

“A straight-line windstorm producing 60 to 80 mph winds can kill you just as sure a tornado producing 75 to 80 mph winds,” Garmon said.

He said it’s important to have multiple was of receiving warning information. He said that way, if a severe thunderstorm warning comes out, you can check to see if you’re going to be impacted.

“If there are large trees around the house and we issue a severe thunderstorm warning for your location, it’s best to get to the side of the house away from the trees.”

Garmon doesn’t expect Wednesday’s weather to be as severe as Christmas Day's, but he said it’s always good to be aware and be prepared.