The National Weather Service expects the greatest threat of severe storms and tornadoes to begin around 5 a.m. Sunday morning and last until noon.

The inclement weather had previously been project to begin at 7 or 9 a.m. and last until 1 or 2 p.m.

EMA director Herb Reeves said residents need to be alert and prepared as the storms hit.

“We encourage people to pay attention to the weather, especially Saturday night into Sunday morning, and have some means of notification whether Smart 911 or a weather radio, especially if you live in a remote location away from any sirens,” Reeves said. “In a matter of minutes it can turn deadly. We want people to be alert and be prepared for any situation.”

The Messenger will be monitoring the storm and updating social media as new information is released.