Alabama Forecast to See 25–35 mph Wind Gusts Wednesday Morning, Creating Hazards for Holiday Decorations and Lightweight Outdoor Items

ALABAMA — A gusty wind event is expected to move across central and eastern Alabama on Wednesday morning, bringing wind gusts between 25 and 35 mph. Meteorologists warn that these winds may cause holiday inflatables, lightweight decorations, and unsecured outdoor items to become unstable or blow away if not secured properly.

Forecast Shows Widespread 25–35 mph Gusts Across Central Alabama

Latest projections indicate that cities including Birmingham, Gadsden, Hoover, Anniston, Talladega, Clanton, and Oneonta will experience gusts in the 30–35 mph range, while areas such as Tuscaloosa, Fayette, Greensboro, and Demopolis will see gusts closer to 25–30 mph.

Wind speeds are expected to peak around 11:00 AM Wednesday, aligning with the strongest daytime mixing and allowing stronger winds aloft to reach the surface.

These wind levels are not damaging, but they are strong enough to move unsecured decorations, topple lightweight yard items, shake holiday inflatables, and cause brief travel impacts for high-profile vehicles.

Holiday Decorations and Inflatables Most at Risk

This week’s timing aligns with increased holiday displays across neighborhoods, leaving many households with festive inflatables, lightweight ornaments, and lawn décor that may not withstand gusty winds.

Residents are advised to:

• Secure inflatables with additional stakes or weights
• Bring inside lightweight decorations
• Ensure extension cords and anchors are firmly set
• Check for loose items on porches, balconies, or patios

Even moderate gusts can lift or drag inflatables across yards or into roadways, creating unexpected hazards.

Travel Impacts Possible for Certain Vehicles

Though winds are not severe, meteorologists note that high-profile vehicles such as vans, delivery trucks, and RVs may experience mild crosswind effects, especially along open stretches of highways west and east of Birmingham.

Drivers should remain alert to sudden gusts, particularly near overpasses, ridgelines, and open rural areas.

Winds Expected to Ease by Late Afternoon

The strong morning winds are forecast to gradually weaken by mid-to-late afternoon as atmospheric mixing decreases. By the evening hours, gusts are expected to settle below 20 mph across most of central Alabama.

Residents are encouraged to prepare early Wednesday morning and secure outdoor items ahead of time to prevent damage or loss.

For more weather updates and safety information across Alabama, stay connected with SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.