On Friday at 1:58 p.m. an updated severe thunderstorm watch was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until 5 p.m. for Colbert, Franklin, Lauderdale, Lawrence and Limestone counties.

A severe thunderstorm watch was issued for the Columbus area Friday. The watch, which was issued at 12:50, lasts until 7 p.m. today, according to the National Weather Service. Showers and storms are expected to move into the area this afternoon and early evening.