HUNTSVILLE, Ala. - Much of Northern Alabama is expected to see severe thunderstorms starting early next week, with a chance of hail, damaging winds and brief tornadoes starting Monday morning and continuing through Tuesday.

Thunderstorms could begin as early as Sunday afternoon and strengthen early Monday.

National Weather Service meteorologist Tim Troutman says the Huntsville office will monitor the system's progress as it moves across the Midwest this weekend.

Troutman says flooding also is a concern, with predictions of three to five inches of rain for northern Alabama. Flash flooding during the storm is possible. Flooding from streams, rivers or creeks also is possible as the system tapers off.

The NWS recommends that people review severe weather plans this weekend and determine a safe place to go if a storm warning is issued.