Tornado and Hail in Alabama, March 18, 2013

Name: Tornado and Hail in Alabama, March 18, 2013
Start: 2013-03-18T12:25
End: 2013-03-18T18:31
Location: Alabama

March 18, 2013 · NWS BMX · 97 events in 30 counties and zones

An upper trough became negatively tilted as it moved into the Mississippi River Valley. A strong cold front trailed southward from the trough and swept through the state.

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 0
Injuries: 4
Property damage: None recorded
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 97

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS BMX wrote it up.

An upper trough became negatively tilted as it moved into the Mississippi River Valley. A strong cold front trailed southward from the trough and swept through the state. Ahead of this cold front, an intense derecho moved through central Alabama during the afternoon and evening hours of Monday, March 18th. The morning started out cloudy across Alabama, but as dry air aloft filtered into the state from the southwest, the clouds thinned, allowing surface based instability to increase into the 1250-1750 J/kg range ahead of the developing line of thunderstorms. As the line entered the state from Mississippi, it brought with it damaging straight line winds of widespread reports of 60 to 80 mph, including a measured report of 88 mph. These winds resulted in trees and power lines down across the northern two-thirds of central Alabama. Along with the wind from the derecho, up to two inch hail was reported and eventually a tornado spun up in northern Etowah County. Ahead of the derecho, discrete thunderstorms developed as well. It was within these individual storms where some of the largest hail was reported, including baseball sized hail in Chilton County.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Birmingham, AL wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Mar 18, 11:30 AM CST, 55 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Mar 18, 11:30 AM CST, 55 minutes before

AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE BIRMINGHAM AL
1230 PM CDT MON MAR 18 2013

.UPDATE...
FOR 18Z AVIATION.

&&

.DISCUSSION...

TODAY LOOKS LIKE IT COULD BE THE STORY OF 2 OR 3 DIFFERENT TALES.
WE START OUT THIS MORNING WITH AMPLE CLOUD COVER AND SCATTERED
SHOWERS ACROSS A LARGE PORTION OF CENTRAL ALABAMA AS WELL AS THE
MAIN ONGOING SITUATION...THE SQUALL LINE THAT HAS DEVELOPED IN
NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI. AS EXPECTED...THE MORNING CLOUD COVER IS
HAMPERING THE DEVELOPMENT OF SFC BASED INSTABILITY...BUT THE SQUALL
LINE DOES HAVE THE ENERGY FROM THE PARENT SURFACE LOW IN SOUTHERN
KENTUCKY WITH WHICH TO WORK.  THE LINE SHOULD REMAIN ELEVATED BUT
WILL CARRY A LOW-END HAIL AND DAMAGING WIND THREAT.   THIS IS
EXPECTED TO CHANGE HOWEVER AS WE MOVE INTO THE AFTERNOON HOURS.
MODEL GUIDANCE SUPPORTED BY WATER VAPOR SATELLITE IMAGERY ARE STILL
SUGGESTING DRY AIR WILL WORK INTO CENTRAL ALABAMA ALOFT AND WE COULD
STILL SEE SOME MIXING OUT OF THE CLOUDS CURRENTLY IN PLACE.  IF THIS
DOES OCCUR...A GOOD PORTION OF THE AREA COULD SEE SFC BASED CAPES IN
THE 1000-1750 J/KG RANGE.  WHEN COUPLED WITH INCREASING MID-LEVEL
LAPSE RATES AND VEERING SURFACE WINDS...THIS COMBINATION COULD SPELL
SOME FAIRLY LARGE HAIL AND POTENTIALLY DAMAGING WINDS WITH ANY STORM
THAT TAPS INTO THAT ENERGY.  IF YOU DO SEE CLEARING IN YOUR AREA AND
THE SUN COMES OUT...THEN THAT WILL INCREASE YOUR CHANCE FOR A SEVERE
THUNDERSTORM WATCH TO BE EXTENDED TO YOU AS THE ENVIRONMENT WILL
RIPEN FOR SEVERE POTENTIAL THIS AFTERNOON AND EVENING. PROPER
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS FOR SEVERE WEATHER ARE EXPECTED TO DECREASE
AS WE MOVE TOWARDS THE MIDNIGHT HOUR TONIGHT.

UPDATES ARE OUT.

27

&&

.AVIATION...
18Z TAF DISCUSSION.

THIS IS GOING TO BE A VERY IDEALIZED TAF FORECAST...ESPECIALLY FOR
THE FIRST 6 TO 8 HOURS.  WITH MVFR CIGS BECOMING THINNER AND
THINNER...SUNSHINE IS STARTING TO SQUEEZE THROUGH THE CLOUD DECK.
THIS WILL LIKELY HELP TO DESTABILIZE THINGS...ALLOWING FOR SCATTERED
TS DEVELOPMENT ACROSS MOST OF THE AREA THIS AFTERNOON.  PREVAILING
TAF LINES REALLY REVOLVE AROUND THE LINE OF TS OVER NORTHERN
MISSISSIPPI AND ALABAMA...WHICH WILL CONTINUE PUSHING TO THE SOUTH
AND EAST THROUGH 00Z.  MAY HAVE TO ADJUST A BIT IF THESE SCATTERED
STORMS BEGIN POPPING UP AHEAD OF THE LINE.

WINDS WILL GRADUALLY VEER THROUGH THE AFTERNOON AS WELL...GIVING US
SOUTHWESTERLY SURFACE FLOW AHEAD OF FROPA...WHICH WILL TRANSLATE
THROUGH CENTRAL ALABAMA DURING THE OVERNIGHT HOURS.  CLEARING IS
LIKELY A FEW HOURS AFTER DAYBREAK ON TUESDAY.

&&

.BMX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
NONE.

&&

Hazardous weather outlook, Mar 18, 12:08 PM CST, 17 minutes before

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE BIRMINGHAM AL
108 PM CDT MON MAR 18 2013

ALZ011>015-017>050-191815-
MARION-LAMAR-FAYETTE-WINSTON-WALKER-BLOUNT-ETOWAH-CALHOUN-CHEROKEE-
CLEBURNE-PICKENS-TUSCALOOSA-JEFFERSON-SHELBY-ST. CLAIR-TALLADEGA-
CLAY-RANDOLPH-SUMTER-GREENE-HALE-PERRY-BIBB-CHILTON-COOSA-TALLAPOOSA-
CHAMBERS-MARENGO-DALLAS-AUTAUGA-LOWNDES-ELMORE-MONTGOMERY-MACON-
BULLOCK-LEE-RUSSELL-PIKE-BARBOUR-
108 PM CDT MON MAR 18 2013

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR THE COUNTIES SERVED BY THE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE OFFICE IN BIRMINGHAM.

.DAY ONE...THIS AFTERNOON AND TONIGHT.

THERE WILL BE A CHANCE FOR SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS THROUGH 10 PM...
FOR ALL OF CENTRAL ALABAMA. THE PRIMARY THREATS WILL BE DAMAGING
STRAIGHT LINE WINDS AND LARGE HAIL...POSSIBLY UP TO TWO INCHES IN
DIAMETER.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...TUESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY.

A DRY AIRMASS WILL WORK INTO THE AREA ON TUESDAY. THERE IS A LOW
CONFIDENCE THAT RELATIVE HUMIDITIES MAY DROP BELOW 25 PERCENT
ACROSS THE EAST FOR SEVERAL HOURS DURING THE AFTERNOON. THIS WOULD
HELP CREATE A POTENTIAL HIGH FIRE DANGER. OUTDOOR BURNING IS
DISCOURAGED WITH THIS TYPE OF AIRMASS.

THERE IS A CHANCE FOR TEMPERATURES TO FALL BELOW THE FREEZING MARK
WEDNESDAY NIGHT INTO THURSDAY MORNING. SENSITIVE VEGETATION WILL
NEED TO BE PROTECTED DUE TO THE FREEZING TEMPERATURES.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

ACTIVATION OF STORM SPOTTERS AND EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT WILL BE
NEEDED THIS AFTERNOON AND TONIGHT.

27

In the hours before

Special weather statement, Mar 18, 12:06 PM CST, 19 minutes before

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE BIRMINGHAM AL
106 PM CDT MON MAR 18 2013

ALZ011-181845-
MARION AL-
106 PM CDT MON MAR 18 2013

...SIGNIFICANT WEATHER ADVISORY FOR NORTHERN MARION COUNTY UNTIL 145
PM CDT...

AT 104 PM CDT...THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE WAS TRACKING A STRONG
THUNDERSTORM NEAR TREMONT...OR 13 MILES SOUTH OF RED BAY...MOVING
EAST AT 45 MPH.

HAIL UP TO ONE-HALF INCH IN DIAMETER IS EXPECTED WITH THIS STORM...
ALONG WITH FREQUENT DANGEROUS LIGHTNING.

LOCATIONS IN OR NEAR THE PATH OF THIS STORM INCLUDE...
  HACKLEBURG...
  SHOTTSVILLE...
  PIGEYE...
  TESSNER...
  BEAR CREEK...

&&

LAT...LON 3432 8766 3431 8764 3421 8763 3418 8820
      3430 8819 3433 8817
TIME...MOT...LOC 1806Z 261DEG 37KT 3426 8815

The radar

The Columbus AFB radar (KGWX), 46 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 18:25 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

55 thunderstorm wind, 41 hail, 1 tornado. Local standard time, as filed.

Hail, Marion

When: March 18, 12:25 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 5 mi NW of Pleasant Ridge
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.228, -88.032

Hail, Marion

When: March 18, 12:38 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 0.57 mi W of Hackleburg
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 34.270, -87.830

Hail, Marion

When: March 18, 12:55 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 0.69 mi N of Bexar
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 34.190, -88.150

Thunderstorm Wind, Marion

When: March 18, 1:04 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 0.69 mi N of Hamilton
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Injuries: 1 direct, 0 indirect
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.140, -87.980

Numerous trees were reported down in Hamilton, with some trees falling on homes and causing damage. One tree landed on a car, trapping and injuring the person inside.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lamar

When: March 18, 1:08 PM CST
Where: Lamar County, 0.69 mi S of Crews
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.890, -88.130

Trees and powerlines down in Sulligent.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lamar

When: March 18, 1:08 PM CST
Where: Lamar County, 0.69 mi S of Crews
Measured: 61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.890, -88.130

Wind gust measured at the Lamar County EOC.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lamar

When: March 18, 1:15 PM CST
Where: Lamar County, 0.9 mi NE of Vernon
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.760, -88.110

Trees and powerlines were reported down in Vernon.

Thunderstorm Wind, Marion

When: March 18, 1:20 PM CST
Where: Marion County, 1.33 mi WSW of Bear Creek
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 34.260, -87.720

Trees and powerlines were reported down in Bear Creek.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lamar

When: March 18, 1:24 PM CST
Where: Lamar County, 0.69 mi S of Millport
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.560, -88.080

Trees and powerlines were reported down in Millport.

Thunderstorm Wind, Fayette

When: March 18, 1:26 PM CST
Where: Fayette County, 0.69 mi N of Fayette
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.690, -87.830

Trees were reported down across Highway 171, near the intersection of Highway 159.

Thunderstorm Wind, Winston

When: March 18, 1:27 PM CST
Where: Winston County, 0.69 mi S of Lynn
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 34.040, -87.550

Trees were reported down in the town of Lynn.

Thunderstorm Wind, Walker

When: March 18, 1:36 PM CST
Where: Walker County, 2.07 mi N of Saragossa
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Official NWS Observations
Coordinates: 33.930, -87.400

Several trees were snapped along Alabama Highway 5, near Lupton School. Trees were also reported down and blocking Prospect Road, causing damage to a home.

Thunderstorm Wind, Walker

When: March 18, 1:46 PM CST
Where: Walker County, 4.41 mi NE of Marigold
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.960, -87.210

Trees and powerlines were reported down in Curry.

Thunderstorm Wind, Walker

When: March 18, 1:46 PM CST
Where: Walker County, 1.38 mi S of Jasper Walker Co Arp
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.850, -87.270

Trees were reported down blocking roadways in numerous locations. Additionally, two manufactured homes were overturned in Dogwood Acres.

Thunderstorm Wind, Blount

When: March 18, 2:06 PM CST
Where: Blount County, 7.71 mi WSW of Hayden
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.852, -86.900

Trees were reported down along Mount View Road, near the Cullman County line.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:10 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 1.72 mi E of Corner
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.800, -86.920

Approximately one dozen trees were blown down in a uniform direction.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:12 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 0.9 mi SE of Warrior
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 33.810, -86.810

Approximately a dozen trees were reported down in the town of Warrior.

Hail, Blount

When: March 18, 2:17 PM CST
Where: Blount County, 2.95 mi ESE of Blount Spgs
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 33.920, -86.750

Thunderstorm Wind, Blount

When: March 18, 2:18 PM CST
Where: Blount County, 1.95 mi NE of Chamblees Mill
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.091, -86.647

Trees were reported down along County Road 47, near the Cullman County line.

Thunderstorm Wind, Blount

When: March 18, 2:20 PM CST
Where: Blount County, 3.71 mi WNW of Nector
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.970, -86.690

Trees were reported down on Highway 160 near County Road 13.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:20 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, Hopkins
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Amateur Radio
Coordinates: 33.480, -87.080

Wind gust recorded at Union Hill Church on the corner of Taylors Ferry Road and Warrior River Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:22 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 1.15 mi E of Kimberly
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.770, -86.800

Trees were reported down along Bill Jones Road. The tin roof of a vacant manufactured home was also removed.

Thunderstorm Wind, Tuscaloosa

When: March 18, 2:23 PM CST
Where: Tuscaloosa County, 0.69 mi S of River View
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Newspaper
Coordinates: 33.210, -87.550

A tree was uprooted in front of Moore Hall, near the Quad at the University of Alabama.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:24 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, Fultondale
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Amateur Radio
Coordinates: 33.620, -86.800

Multiple trees were reported down near Stouts Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:24 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 1.5 mi NNW of Ayres
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.700, -86.690

Trees were blown down, blocking all lanes of Highway 79, at mile marker 118.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:25 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 0.9 mi NW of Clay
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.710, -86.610

Trees and powerlines were reported down.

Thunderstorm Wind, Blount

When: March 18, 2:25 PM CST
Where: Blount County, 1.5 mi NNW of Remlap
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.840, -86.610

Trees were reported down in multiple locations in the Remlap area.

Hail, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:27 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 0.9 mi NE of East Thomas
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.560, -86.840

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:27 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 0.69 mi S of Chalkville
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 33.640, -86.650

Trees and powerlines were reported down, along with roof damage to several homes.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:27 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 0.9 mi SE of Center Pt
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.620, -86.670

Roof damage occurred on a home west of Trussville.

Hail, Tuscaloosa

When: March 18, 2:28 PM CST
Where: Tuscaloosa County, 0.69 mi N of Abernant
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.290, -87.200

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:28 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, Concord
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.470, -87.030

Trees were reported down, as well as shingle damage on a home on Warrior River Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Blount

When: March 18, 2:30 PM CST
Where: Blount County, Oneonta
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 33.950, -86.470

Structural damage occurred to a business in Oneonta.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: March 18, 2:30 PM CST
Where: Jefferson County, Clay
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Amateur Radio
Coordinates: 33.700, -86.600

Trees reportedly fell on a house on Self Creek Road in Center Point. Additional trees were reported down on Clayton Road and Old Springville Road in Clay.

Thunderstorm Wind, St. Clair

When: March 18, 2:30 PM CST
Where: St. Clair County, 3.26 mi NNW of Sanie
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Newspaper
Coordinates: 33.690, -86.510

Several trees were reported down across U.S. Highway 11.

Hail, Tuscaloosa

When: March 18, 2:31 PM CST
Where: Tuscaloosa County, 2.15 mi NNE of Greeley
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 33.280, -87.140

Hail, Tuscaloosa

When: March 18, 2:31 PM CST
Where: Tuscaloosa County, 2.15 mi NNE of Greeley
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 33.280, -87.140

Thunderstorm Wind, St. Clair

When: March 18, 2:32 PM CST
Where: St. Clair County, 0.57 mi W of Springville
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Newspaper
Coordinates: 33.770, -86.480

Several trees were blown down in multiple locations around Springville.

Thunderstorm Wind, St. Clair

When: March 18, 2:33 PM CST
Where: St. Clair County, 1.34 mi WNW of Moody
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.590, -86.520

A couple of pine trees were reported down along Ridgewood Drive.

Thunderstorm Wind, St. Clair

When: March 18, 2:34 PM CST
Where: St. Clair County, 1.5 mi NNE of Moody
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Newspaper
Coordinates: 33.600, -86.490

Numerous trees were down in the 1600 Block of Park Avenue near Acton Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, St. Clair

When: March 18, 2:35 PM CST
Where: St. Clair County, 0.69 mi N of Odenville
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Newspaper
Coordinates: 33.690, -86.400

Numerous trees were reported down across St. Clair county, including several that were blocking U.S. Highway 171 in Odenville.

Hail, St. Clair

When: March 18, 2:35 PM CST
Where: St. Clair County, 0.69 mi N of Odenville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.690, -86.400

Hail, Calhoun

When: March 18, 2:37 PM CST
Where: Calhoun County, 1.34 mi ENE of (Anb)anniston Calhou
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 33.590, -85.830

Thunderstorm Wind, Etowah

When: March 18, 2:39 PM CST to 2:43 PM CST
Where: Etowah County, 0.9 mi SW of Walnut Grove
Measured: 74 kt (85 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 34.060, -86.310

Along the northwest shore of Doctor Jenkins Lake, along Murphree Valley Road, approximately four dozen trees were uprooted in a short and narrow swath of wind damage. A mobile home was also overturned in the area.

Tornado, Etowah

When: March 18, 2:43 PM CST to 2:48 PM CST
Where: Etowah County, 2.18 mi NNE of Sardis City to 3.5 mi ENE of Whitesboro
Rating: EF1
Path length: 5.27 mi
Path width: 300 yd
Injuries: 3 direct, 0 indirect
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 34.199, -86.106

The tornado initially touched down in Marshall County in Boaz and moved eastward into Etowah County about a half of a mile west of Oak Drive where it snapped and uprooted several pine trees. From there it moved to the east and crossed Broadwell Road and overturned a tractor trailer and a camper. The tornado continued eastward, snapping and uprooting trees along the path. Several barns and small outbuildings sustained roof damage. As the tornado crossed Chumley Road, two mobile homes were overturned while more trees were uprooted. The most extensive damage occurred as the tornado approached Rowen Road. A mobile home was lifted and overturned leaving one person seriously injured and two others with minor injuries. In this same area, two additional mobile homes were destroyed. As the tornado crossed Brow Road, a one story brick home had one third of its roof removed and wind-blown debris was observed on all four sides of the home. The tornado continued further east for approximately 300 yards before dissipating as it approched Sand Valley Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, St. Clair

When: March 18, 2:45 PM CST
Where: St. Clair County, 0.58 mi W of Pell City
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Newspaper
Coordinates: 33.580, -86.290

Duran Junior High School sustained rood damage, as well as the Press Box at the football field. Additionally, an airport hanger door was blown in and damaged an airplane at the St. Clair County Airport.

Hail, St. Clair

When: March 18, 2:46 PM CST
Where: St. Clair County, 0.69 mi N of Cropwell
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Newspaper
Coordinates: 33.560, -86.270

Thunderstorm Wind, Calhoun

When: March 18, 2:46 PM CST
Where: Calhoun County, 1.38 mi S of Middleton
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.750, -86.020

A large tree was uprooted.

Thunderstorm Wind, Etowah

When: March 18, 2:46 PM CST
Where: Etowah County, 0.9 mi SE of Walnut Grove
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.060, -86.290

Trees were reported down on County Road 41 and Walnut Grove Road.

Hail, Chilton

When: March 18, 2:48 PM CST
Where: Chilton County, 1.5 mi NNW of Falakto
Measured: 2.5 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.820, -86.610

Hail, Chilton

When: March 18, 2:50 PM CST
Where: Chilton County, 1.35 mi ESE of Clanton Gragg Arpt
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.840, -86.600

Thunderstorm Wind, Etowah

When: March 18, 2:50 PM CST
Where: Etowah County, 0.57 mi W of Rainbow City
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.950, -86.040

A tree was blown down onto a home, entrapping the resident inside.

Hail, Talladega

When: March 18, 2:50 PM CST
Where: Talladega County, 1.21 mi N of Lincoln
Measured: 2 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.638, -86.118

Hail, Chilton

When: March 18, 2:51 PM CST
Where: Chilton County, 1.74 mi E of Falakto
Measured: 3 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.800, -86.570

Thunderstorm Wind, Etowah

When: March 18, 2:52 PM CST
Where: Etowah County, 0.57 mi W of Rainbow City
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.950, -86.040

Approximately 20 trees were down along Alabama Highway 77.

Hail, Bibb

When: March 18, 2:56 PM CST
Where: Bibb County, 2.15 mi NNE of Centerville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.980, -87.120

Thunderstorm Wind, Etowah

When: March 18, 3:00 PM CST
Where: Etowah County, 1.5 mi SSE of Southside
Measured: 76 kt (87 mph) measured gust
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 33.980, -86.010

Anemometer registered 88 mph prior to losing a cup. Numerous trees and powerlines down in the area.

Thunderstorm Wind, Talladega

When: March 18, 3:03 PM CST
Where: Talladega County, Talladega
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 33.430, -86.100

Trees were reported down in multiple locations blocking roadways in the city of Talladega. Some of the roads blocked include Cherry Street, Taylors Mill Road, Mountain View Road, and East Street South. Approximately 3 trees fell on houses.

Thunderstorm Wind, Calhoun

When: March 18, 3:04 PM CST
Where: Calhoun County, 1.34 mi WSW of Saks
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 33.710, -85.850

The Acker Electic Company building sustained roof damage.

Thunderstorm Wind, Talladega

When: March 18, 3:05 PM CST
Where: Talladega County, 1.34 mi WNW of Munford
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Newspaper
Coordinates: 33.540, -85.970

The roof was removed off of a residence on McElderry Road. A tree also fell on a house on Mitchell Street.

Thunderstorm Wind, Bibb

When: March 18, 3:05 PM CST
Where: Bibb County, 2.7 mi NW of Brierfield
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.060, -86.950

A few trees were reported down along County Road 10, with a portion of the road blocked.

Hail, Calhoun

When: March 18, 3:05 PM CST
Where: Calhoun County, 1.15 mi W of Merrellton
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 33.850, -85.750

Thunderstorm Wind, Calhoun

When: March 18, 3:05 PM CST
Where: Calhoun County, 0.9 mi SE of Jacksonville
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.810, -85.760

The roof of the library at Jacksonville State was partially removed, destroying the transmitter for the radio station that was mounted on the roof. Campus Inn also sustained roof damage.

Thunderstorm Wind, Etowah

When: March 18, 3:07 PM CST
Where: Etowah County, 0.57 mi E of Hokes Bluff
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.000, -85.860

The roof was removed off of a barn on Yancy Drive in Hokes Bluff.

Hail, Clay

When: March 18, 3:07 PM CST
Where: Clay County, 0.69 mi S of Lineville
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.310, -85.750

Thunderstorm Wind, Cherokee

When: March 18, 3:08 PM CST
Where: Cherokee County, 0.9 mi SW of Blanche
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 34.360, -85.610

Trees were uprooted along Highway 35 near the Dekalb County Line.

Thunderstorm Wind, Talladega

When: March 18, 3:09 PM CST
Where: Talladega County, 0.9 mi NE of Ironaton
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.430, -85.970

Trees and powerlines were reported down in Ironaton and on Priebes Road at Grant Town Road in Munford.

Hail, Tallapoosa

When: March 18, 3:13 PM CST
Where: Tallapoosa County, Camp Hill
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.800, -85.650

Hail, Coosa

When: March 18, 3:16 PM CST
Where: Coosa County, 0.69 mi N of Rockford
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.890, -86.220

Hail, Chambers

When: March 18, 3:20 PM CST
Where: Chambers County, 1.5 mi NNE of Sandy Creek
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 32.840, -85.510

Thunderstorm Wind, Clay

When: March 18, 3:20 PM CST
Where: Clay County, 3.45 mi N of Dampsey
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.480, -85.770

Trees were uprooted and powerlines downed near Highway 49 and Abel Road.

Hail, Chambers

When: March 18, 3:21 PM CST
Where: Chambers County, 1.16 mi W of Sturkie
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.800, -85.470

Hail, Calhoun

When: March 18, 3:22 PM CST
Where: Calhoun County, 1.34 mi WNW of Piedmont
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.930, -85.620

Thunderstorm Wind, Cleburne

When: March 18, 3:27 PM CST
Where: Cleburne County, Fruithurst
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.730, -85.430

Trees and powerlines were downed.

Thunderstorm Wind, Cleburne

When: March 18, 3:28 PM CST
Where: Cleburne County, 3.45 mi N of Muscadine
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 33.780, -85.380

Powerlines were downed just north of Muscadine.

Hail, Perry

When: March 18, 3:34 PM CST
Where: Perry County, 2.76 mi N of Sprott
Measured: 2 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.710, -87.220

Thunderstorm Wind, Randolph

When: March 18, 3:34 PM CST
Where: Randolph County, 1.35 mi WNW of Wedowee
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 33.310, -85.490

Numerous trees were uprooted throughout the county. Several trees fell on homes, and the roof of a church was partially removed.

Thunderstorm Wind, Chambers

When: March 18, 3:37 PM CST
Where: Chambers County, 0.69 mi N of Lanett Muni Arpt
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.830, -85.230

One business, on 32nd Street SW, had a portion of its roof removed.

Hail, Chilton

When: March 18, 3:45 PM CST
Where: Chilton County, 2.22 mi NW of Maplesville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.800, -86.910

Hail, Chambers

When: March 18, 3:53 PM CST
Where: Chambers County, 1.5 mi NNW of Fairview
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 32.870, -85.210

Hail, Chambers

When: March 18, 3:53 PM CST
Where: Chambers County, 0.58 mi W of Langdale
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.820, -85.180

Hail, Sumter

When: March 18, 3:55 PM CST
Where: Sumter County, 0.58 mi E of Siloam
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Fire Department/Rescue
Coordinates: 32.430, -88.260

Hail, Elmore

When: March 18, 3:58 PM CST
Where: Elmore County, 1.35 mi WNW of Martin Lake South
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.740, -85.970

Hail, Elmore

When: March 18, 4:00 PM CST
Where: Elmore County, 2.82 mi N of Martin Lake South
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.770, -85.944

Hail, Autauga

When: March 18, 4:02 PM CST
Where: Autauga County, 2.33 mi E of New Prospect
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.670, -86.510

Hail, Tallapoosa

When: March 18, 4:13 PM CST
Where: Tallapoosa County, 4.19 mi N of Barnesville
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.760, -85.810

Hail, Tallapoosa

When: March 18, 4:15 PM CST
Where: Tallapoosa County, 5.37 mi NNW of Barnesville
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.770, -85.840

Hail, Lee

When: March 18, 4:25 PM CST
Where: Lee County, 1.35 mi WSW of Whatley Xrd
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 32.490, -85.370

Thunderstorm Wind, Elmore

When: March 18, 4:30 PM CST
Where: Elmore County, Millbrook
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.480, -86.370

Several trees were uprooted in Millbrook.

Hail, Lee

When: March 18, 4:40 PM CST
Where: Lee County, 2.15 mi NNW of Griffen Mill
Measured: 3 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.550, -85.260

Hail, Montgomery

When: March 18, 4:45 PM CST
Where: Montgomery County, 0.69 mi N of Chisholm
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 32.410, -86.250

Hail, Macon

When: March 18, 4:58 PM CST
Where: Macon County, 2.71 mi ESE of Notasulga
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Amateur Radio
Coordinates: 32.550, -85.630

Hail, Lee

When: March 18, 5:08 PM CST
Where: Lee County, 3.27 mi SSW of Smiths
Measured: 1.75 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 32.480, -85.100

Hail, Russell

When: March 18, 5:12 PM CST
Where: Russell County, 2.23 mi NW of Phenix City
Measured: 2 in hail
Reported by: CoCoRaHS
Coordinates: 32.490, -85.030

Hail, Russell

When: March 18, 5:17 PM CST
Where: Russell County, 0.58 mi W of Phenix City
Measured: 1.25 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.470, -85.010

Hail, Lee

When: March 18, 5:17 PM CST
Where: Lee County, 2.15 mi SSE of Smiths
Measured: 1.5 in hail
Reported by: Public
Coordinates: 32.490, -85.060

Thunderstorm Wind, Barbour

When: March 18, 6:31 PM CST
Where: Barbour County, 2.15 mi NNW of Texasville
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.750, -85.440

A large portion of a metal roof was removed from a residence along County Road 20.

What these are

Hail: Hail three-quarters of an inch or larger, or smaller hail that caused damage, filed with the largest stone measured.
Thunderstorm Wind: Winds from a thunderstorm of 50 knots (58 mph) or more, or lower winds that caused damage or casualties. Measured gusts are marked MG, estimated EG.
Tornado: A violently rotating column of air in contact with the ground and extending from a thunderstorm, filed with its path, width and Fujita or Enhanced Fujita rating from the damage survey.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in Alabama in 2013 Every state in 2013 This day in weather history The tornado archive for Alabama, 2013 Warnings in Alabama, March 2013

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 440085, 440087, 440088, 440091, 440089, 440095, 440092, 440100, 440101, 440103, 440104, 440105, 440106, 440107, 440108, 440330, 440331, 440333, 440335, 440332, 440337, 440346, 440348, 440334, 440349, 440336, 440344, 440343, 440351, 440356, 440352, 440354, 440353, 440358, 440360, 440370, 440372, 440363, 440364, 440369, and more.