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Butler County is under a severe thunderstorm watch until 9 p.m. tonight, Thursday, June 20.

The National Weather Service in Mobile issued the watch shortly after 1 p.m. today. Butler County EMA Director Kris Ware said local officials are monitoring the situation.

According to the Nationals Weather Service the threat of thunderstorms is expected to increase this afternoon and continue through this evening.

NWS officials said the environment shows an increased potential or slight risk for most inland areas of southwest Alabama and Northwest Florida. NWS maps show Butler County in that area.

Butler County has a chance for the development of strong thunderstorms with damaging winds in excess of 60 mph being the main threat.

For those traveling south to the Coast, there is a high risk for potentially deadly rip currents, which will continue along beaches through Friday evening.

The Advocate will continue to monitor the storms and keep readers updated via our website and Facebook.