A severe weather outbreak in Alabama through Saturday with the threat of hail, damaging winds and tornadoes. Some tornadoes could be strong and long-track.

A severe weather outbreak is expected on Saturday in Alabama, according to the National Weather Service. NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center has added -- and now expanded as of Thursday afternoon -- a rarely-used Level 4 out of 5 risk for parts of a large part of Alabama for Saturday.

The American Red Cross urges residents to prepare for severe storms and tornado threats with crucial safety guidelines.

With the possibility of severe weather this weekend in Alabama, now is the time to prepare. Here are some tips from the United Way of West Alabama: Gas: Fill up your car’s gas tank in case you need to travel. If you have a generator at home, fill up your tanks and containers. Stay charged: Charge your phone, laptop, backup battery chargers, etc.

A multi-day outbreak of severe thunderstorms will begin today and last through the weekend in the Midwest, South and East. Strong, long-tracked tornadoes, widespread damaging winds, large hail and flash flooding are all threats this dangerous bout of severe weather could produce.