Published on: August 16, 2008 at 3:15 PM

Thunderstorms have popped up across Central Alabama this afternoon.

They extend from eastern Hale and Perry Counties through much of Chilton, Autauga into Coosa and Elmore Counties.

Other storms are over East Alabama in the Opelika, Tuskegee and Phenix City areas.

If you are near one, be prepared for deadly lightning, brief heavy rains and gusty winds.