FROM STAFF REPORTS

The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for Shelby County Friday morning in advance of a line of severe thunderstorms, which includes the possibility of “supercell thunderstorms that may spawn strong and long-tracked tornadoes.”

Shelby County Schools and the University of Montevallo will dismiss at 1 p.m. due to the prediction and high risk of severe weather, according to a press release from the superintendent’s office.

All after school-events and activities scheduled for today are canceled and will be rescheduled as needed. All after-school care programs are also canceled.

The tornado watch, which was issued at 11:20 a.m., is in effect until 9 p.m.

A release from the National Weather Service said the greatest threat timing appears to be in the afternoon and evening.

Check back for more updates as they become available.