MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) — Happy Mardi Gras, Gulf Coast! The first half of our Fat Tuesday will bring strong southerly winds, mild temperatures, increasing clouds and a relatively low chance of wet weather. Changes will arrive by the second half of the day though as our next weathermaker moves in.

Just about all the NBC 15 area is included in a level 3 enhanced risk of severe weather which means numerous severe storms will be possible. Storms could enter the northwestern corner of our area as early as 4PM, approach I-65 between 6-8PM, then exit NWFL by 2/3AM. During this time we will go CODE RED. Numerous severe storms are likely. Primary threats are damaging straight-line winds, but a few tornadoes and hail can’t be ruled out. Within the enhanced risk, a few strong tornadoes (EF 2+) can’t be ruled out. Make sure you have multiple ways to receive watches and warnings.

Code Red means stop and consider the weather. While we’re in Code Red make sure you’re staying alert to the changing weather, have multiple ways to receive warnings, and know where your safe place is just in case.

A Wind Advisory is in effect from noon Tuesday until midnight with winds gusting up to 40mph. A High Surf Warning is also in place from noon Tuesday until 6AM Wednesday with large breaking waves in the surf zone of 6 to 10 feet. A Small Craft Advisory will be in effect through Tuesday morning before being replaced by a Gale Warning at 3PM. The Gale Warning will remain until 3AM Wednesday before being replaced by another small craft advisory. During the Gale Warning, seas could reach 4 ft. in coastal lakes and bays and 10 ft. offshore. Winds could gust over 30 knots as well.

Storms exit fairly early on Wednesday leaving clearing skies and highs struggling to reach 70. Thursday will be sunny but on the cool side with morning lows near 40 and afternoon highs in the lower 60s.

We’re back to seasonal norms Friday, before wet weather returns (60%) Saturday.

At the beach, the rip current risk will be HIGH on Mardi Gras & Ash Wednesday and will be moderate by Thursday.