A south Alabama mayor is upset with recent comments made by Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch regarding gang violence after he said he wishes “we could be put them in the same arena and let them kill the hell out of each other.”
Burch said in a press conference that the shooting was gang-related and was frustrated due to innocent people being harmed as a result of the feuds.
“It’s gangs and frankly, I wish we could put them in the same arena and let them kill the hell out of each other,” Burch said. “That would solve the problem. It’s the innocent people who get shot.”
But Prichard Mayor Jimmie Gardner took exception to Burch’s comments and posted a video on Facebook calling them, “inhumane and unrealistic.”
“To imply such an inhumane and unrealistic approach to public safety is unacceptable from any public official, especially one in a position of law enforcement leadership,” Gardner said.
“These are not just issues to casually discuss or project personal frustrations onto — they are real, devastating tragedies that destroy families, traumatize children, and scar entire neighborhoods.”
Gardner said that although Burch acknowledged innocent people get hurt as a result of the violence the sheriff’s “choice of language undermines the seriousness of this crisis.”
Gardner also rebutted Burch’s claim that the Prichard Police Department did not respond to a 4 a.m. shooting on Wednesday.
Gardner said that the call logs demonstrated that Prichard’s dispatcher never received a call at that time and questioned why Burch would make such a claim when evidence proved otherwise.
Burch has repeatedly criticized Prichard’s Police Department and on Wednesday again stated that it was, “failing the citizens of that city.”
Gardner said the focus should be on collaboration not finger-pointing.
“I have, on many occasions, publicly expressed appreciation for the manpower and resources the Sheriff’s Office has provided to the City of Prichard,” Gardner said.
“But I will not stand by in silence while inflammatory, misleading, and harmful rhetoric is used to cast blame or distract from the real work needed to address crime. We must focus on accountability, collaboration, and proactive solutions – not finger-pointing or gaslighting.”
A weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Friday at 7:39 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 8:15 p.m. for Bibb and Chilton counties.
Residents may experience wind gusts of up to 40 mph.
“At 7:38 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Chilton County Motor Sports Park, or 9 miles southwest of Jemison, moving east at 25 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.”
Locations impacted by the alert include Clanton, Jemison, Thorsby, Maplesville, Chilton County Motor Sports Park, Gap Of The Mountain, Pooles Crossroads, Randolph, Lomax, Isabella, I 65 Rest Area and Cooper.
The weather service comments, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle.”
When lightning looms: Expert safety tips for thunderstorms
Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.
To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:
Lightning safety plan:
When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.
Indoors safety measures:
Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.
Wait for the all-clear:
After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.
When indoor shelter isn’t available:
If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.
In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.
Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads
When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the weather service to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:
Beware of swollen waterways:
Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.
Maintain safe driving distances:
Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.
Slow down and stay cautious:
On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.
Prioritize visibility
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.
Mind your windshield wipers:
Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
When lightning looms: Expert safety tips for thunderstorms
Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.
To guarantee your safety in the midst of a thunderstorm, take into account the following recommendations:
Lightning safety plan:
When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Monitor the sky for threatening signs and listen for the sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s an indication that lightning is nearby.
Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.
Indoors safety measures:
Once you’ve found shelter indoors, abstain from using corded phones, electrical appliances, or plumbing fixtures, and refrain from approaching windows and doors.
Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.
Wait for the all-clear:
After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
It’s important to remember that lightning can strike even when a storm seems to have passed, so exercise caution.
When indoor shelter isn’t available:
If you find yourself outdoors with no access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In forested areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If no alternative exists, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. Remember that a tent offers no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. While water and metal don’t attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.
In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.
Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads
When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the weather service to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:
Beware of swollen waterways:
Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.
Maintain safe driving distances:
Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.
Slow down and stay cautious:
On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.
Prioritize visibility
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.
Mind your windshield wipers:
Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
It’s time for the biggest home series in Auburn baseball history.
Now two wins away from the College World Series, the Tigers will host Coastal Carolina in the super regionals. First pitch is scheduled for 8 p.m. and game 2 is set for 2 p.m. on Saturday.
Coastal Carolina holds the best record in the country sitting at 51-11 overall. The Chanticleers are currently on a 21-game winning streak and have not lost a game in six weeks.
Auburn’s pitching rotation is led by senior righthander Samuel Dutton (7-3, 3.84), who has 92 strikeouts and 19 walks in 82 innings.
Here’s a live feed of the action inside Plainsman Park:
Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle has learned to juggle this offseason at the request of Robert Prince, the NFL team’s new wide-receivers coach.
“RP brought a whole thing in here that we do,” Waddle said on Tuesday. “He was challenging us to learn how to juggle. I learned how to juggle in two or three days. I’m just saying. If anybody can beat that, I don’t know. I was TikTokking and some other stuff about this juggling. RP challenged us to learn. That was actually pretty fun. I’m trying to learn new techniques actually.”
The former Alabama All-American said his new skill was meant to improve hand-eye coordination.
“It’s really tough,” Waddle said. “I didn’t know anything about juggling, but I learned in two days if I didn’t tell y’all that. If I didn’t tell y’all that, I learned in two days. Two days.”
Miami coach Mike McDaniel said juggling was only one way that Waddle had attacked the offseason after the least productive season of his NFL career.
“I see a guy that’s ready to earn growth to a game that’s already top tier within the National Football League,” McDaniel said on Tuesday. “It’s exciting for me and exciting for when I go out on the field, because he’s humbly approaching his craft, attacking it, so that he’s not satisfied with any part of his game.
“I think one thing that has been really cool to watch is his understanding of who he is on the team, how much we depend on his playmaking ability, but also how much we depend on how he is as a football player in extremely non-selfish ways. He’s very active in the run game. He’s very active in just really doing whatever he can to benefit the other pass eligibles.
“Realistically, I’m really excited about what 2025 has in store for him, based upon the excitement that he gives me every day attacking his craft. So today should be a good day, and he’ll go back to the drawing board and chop wood the next. That’s kind of been his formula this offseason, and I think it’s benefiting him.”
After the Dolphins drafted Waddle at No. 6 in 2021, he produced three consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons. But in 2024, Waddle dropped to 58 receptions for 744 yards and two touchdowns – all career lows – as Miami went 8-9, its worst record since the wide receiver came aboard.
“Definitely not the year we wanted as a team,” Waddle said. “Definitely the year that I didn’t want as an individual. But lucky for me, we get to go back — same quarterback, same head coach, (offensive coordinator) — and run it back. I think the foundation that we are setting here in OTAs is going to really help us in training camp and lead us to the season.”
A big part of Miami’s problems in 2024 seemed to stem from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s health. Waddle’s former Alabama teammate missed six games because of a concussion and a hip injury, and when he wasn’t on the field, the Dolphins struggled to move the football.
In the 10 games in which Tagovailoa went all the way at quarterback, Miami averaged scoring 25.5 points. In the other seven games, the Dolphins averaged 13 points.
“He’s just excited to play, man,” Waddle said. “I think all of us are. He looks confident, coming out with a different swag. He’s got dye in his hair and some other stuff. He looks like he’s just eager to play, man.”
Miami hasn’t won a playoff game since Dec. 30, 2000. Meanwhile, the Florida Panthers, whose Amerant Bank Arena is about 20 miles from the Dolphins’ Hard Rock Stadium, started their third consecutive appearance in the Stanley Cup Finals on Wednesday night with a 4-3 overtime loss to the Edmonton Oilers. Last season, the Panthers defeated the Oilers in the NHL championship series.
“They definitely bring an urge to the city,” Waddle said about the Panthers. “They bring excitement to the city. Every professional sport in the city, it’s just like they’re pretty much the standard with all that they’ve accomplished over the past years. It’s definitely lit a fire under us to try to match them.”
Waddle said he’d become a hockey fan since he came to Miami.
“I’m going to go to the Finals,” Waddle said. “I think I’m their good-luck charm because I don’t think they’ve loss since I’ve been. I think they need to invite me sometime soon in an important game because I think they’re pretty undefeated when I’m there. Panthers, hey, I’ll be waiting.”
The Dolphins have three practices remaining in their offseason program – mandatory minicamp on Tuesday through Thursday.
FOR MORE OF AL.COM’S COVERAGE OF THE NFL, GO TO OUR NFL PAGE
Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X at @AMarkG1.
Then, he brought up a younger player who he was especially high on.
“Qua Russaw, he’s the guy that I think has a chance to take over the game,” McElroy said on the podcast, published on Monday. “He was a little bit banged up at times last year. Got a little banged up in the Wisconsin game, but there were so many moments throughout the year that you saw those flashes.”
Russaw, a redshirt sophomore edge for Alabama, started six games last year for the Crimson Tide, and saw the field in all 13. He made 36 tackles, including 2.5 for loss, with one sack.
The Carver-Montgomery product also snagged two interceptions and forced a fumble.
“Now, if he can put it all together in his redshirt sophomore year, he’s got All-SEC and All-American potential, for sure,” McElroy said.
Russaw joined the Crimson Tide in 2023, when Nick Saban was still the coach. The 6-foot-2, 242-pound linebacker stuck around through the transition to new head coach Kalen DeBoer and defensive coordinator Kane Wommack, and made a bigger impact during his second year in Tuscaloosa.
He earned praise from his coaches during the season, especially when Que Robinson’s season ended due to an elbow injury, making more snaps for Russaw.
“I just think he’s doing a really good job of continuing to stay relentless in this process,” Wommack said of Russaw in November. “And now that, because of injury and because he’s producing at a higher level, he is playing more and more consistent as we go through the season. And certainly when you think about some of the things that have happened in that room, and we’ve got a couple of guys that were down, he’s stepping up at the right time.”
Alabama wrapped up spring football in April will begin preseason camp in early August. The Crimson Tide is scheduled to begin the 2025 season with a trip to Tallahassee, where it will face Florida State on Aug. 30.
“Love Island USA” contestant Yulissa Escobar has released a statement apologizing for using racial slurs in past podcast clips that resurfaced online.
“In those clips, I used a word I never should’ve used, a racial slur,” Escobar wrote on her Instagram account.
“I used it ignorantly, not fully understanding the weight, history, or pain behind it. I wasn’t trying to be offensive or harmful, but I recognize now that intention doesn’t excuse impact. And the impact of that word is real. It’s tied to generations of trauma, and it is not mine to use.”
She continued: “At the time, I was speaking casually in conversation, not thinking deeply or critically about what I was saying. But that doesn’t take away from how wrong it was. The truth is, I didn’t know better then, but I do now. I’ve taken the time to reflect, to learn, and to grow from that moment.”
Escobar was removed from the villa during the second episode of Season 7, which aired on Peacock on Wednesday, with minimal context about the reason behind her departure.
Shortly after Peacock announced the original “Love Island USA” cast ahead of its June 3 premiere, fans exposed the ex-islander for her controversial past, vowing to vote her off the show once submissions opened. In the clips obtained by TMZ, she is heard saying the N-word several times while discussing past relationships.
“I’ve changed a lot since then, not just in how I speak, but in how I show up, how I carry myself, and how I honor the experiences of others,” Escobar wrote.
“Growth means recognizing when you were wrong, even if it’s uncomfortable, and choosing to move forward with humility and accountability.”
In her apology, Escobar also addressed claims of false statements about her character circulating online since her exit.
“There have also been fake statements circulating, things written or said by others that don’t reflect me or my heart,” Escobar continued in her post.
“I want to clarify that this is my voice and my words. I don’t need anyone to speak for me. I’m choosing to speak for myself because I take full ownership of my actions. Do not listen to the fake statements. This is my official statement. This is me speaking directly to you. To those who are disappointed or offended, I understand, and I apologize. I am sorry.”
More than 200,000 people in Huntsville will have restricted movement this summer as the housing authority imposes a curfew at its facilities.
A copy of a lease addendum dated June 5 and reviewed by AL.com says the curfew begins Monday until Sept. 30. Residents must sign the document by 5 p.m. Monday.
But in a letter that accompanied the addendum, the authority said the curfew will be at all facilities it controls, which according to its website houses 221,000 people in about 3,000 households in Alabama’s most populous city.
Huntsville Housing Authority did not immediately reply to a request for comment.
For the duration of the curfew, residents will be required to remain indoors from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. The stated rationale is the need to ensure security.
The curfew applies to all outdoor areas of the premises, including porches, balconies, walkways, stairwells, courtyards, parking lots and any other common areas.
“During these hours, residents and their guests are allowed to come and go but are not allowed to casually hang out and may not be present outdoors or on porches unless a valid exception applies,” the addendum stated.
Penalties include a written warning, fines or penalties as determined by management and potential lease termination for repeated or serious violations.
“In light of the recent criminal activity in and around our communities and with the safety and well-being of our residents as our top priority, HHA has made the decision to implement a curfew for all residents across the Authority,” the HHA said in the statement that accompanied the lease addendum.
“This temporary measure will be enforced during the summer months to help prevent adverse environments and promote a safer living experience for everyone.”
Curfew exceptions include work-related obligations and emergency situations.
A day after the Atlanta Braves yielded seven runs in the ninth inning of an 11-10 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks, the National League team announced on Friday afternoon reliever Craig Kimbrel would join the Major League roster from the Triple-A Gwinnett Stripers.
A former Lee-Huntsville and Wallace State-Hanceville standout, Kimbrel spent the first five seasons of his big-league career with the Braves, and he holds the franchise record for career saves with 186.
Kimbrel’s most recent appearance for Atlanta came on Sept. 28, 2014. The National League Rookie of the Year, The Sporting New National League Pitcher of the Year twice and an NL All-Star four times during his stint with the Braves, Kimbrel went on to earn five more All-Star selections and add 254 more saves to his total after leaving Atlanta, so that he now ranks fifth in MLB history with 440.
But after being designated for assignment by the Baltimore Orioles on Sept. 18, Kimbrel was without a team until signing a minor-league deal with Atlanta on March 18.
In 18 minor-league games – three for the Double-A Columbus Slingstones and 15 for Gwinnett – Kimbrel had a 1-1 record with a 2.00 earned-run average and three saves in 2025. In 18 innings, he yielded eight hits and nine walks and struck out 23.
Last season with the Orioles, Kimbrel had a 5.33 ERA, 7-5 record and 23 saves in 57 relief appearances. In 52.1 innings, the right-hander yielded 40 hits and 31 walks and struck out 73.
In his career, Kimbrel has a 56-47 record and 2.59 ERA in 837 relief appearances. In 809.2 innings, he has yielded 482 hits and 339 walks and struck out 1,265.
Also on Thursday, the Braves recalled left-handed pitcher Dylan Dodd from the Stripers, placed pitcher Daysbel Hernandez on the 15-day injured list and traded pitcher Scott Blewett to the Orioles for cash considerations.
Blewett, who gave up two home runs in the ninth inning of Thursday’s loss, had started the season in Baltimore. In 11 games for Atlanta, he posted a 5.51 ERA in 16.1 innings.
The Atlanta bullpen has 10 saves and 11 blown saves in the 2025 season.
Mark Inabinett is a sports reporter for Alabama Media Group. Follow him on X at @AMarkG1.
Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall on Friday answered a key question about the state’s controversial new law on consumable products that contain ingredients from hemp.
It will be illegal to sell or possess smokable hemp products starting July 1, according to William Califf, a spokesman for Marshall.
Possession or sale could subject individuals to a Class C felony, punishable by one to 10 years in prison.
It was already known that the smokable products would be banned – that was clear in the new law.
The confusion was the result of two dates in the new law, known as HB445, which the Legislature passed and Gov. Kay Ivey signed in May.
The last line of the 25-page bill that the effective date is July 1.
But other sections of the bill carry a Jan. 1, 2026, effective date.
Store owners said the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board, which will regulate the products under the new law, had not provided a clear answer on which date applied to the product bans.
They said they needed a definite date to make decisions about how to proceed with their business and whether they could continue to sell the smokables until the end of the year.
The ABC Board said Friday morning it was consulting with the attorney general’s office.
An email from Califf on Friday afternoon — hours after AL.com reported on the concerns of businessowners — provided the answer on the banned smokable products.
“The criminal prohibition on the sale or possession of hemp products specifically excluded from the definition of ‘consumable hemp product’ goes into effect July 1, 2025,” Califf wrote.
Products specifically excluded from the definition, found on page 3 of the bill, include any smokable hemp product.
“Smokable hemp products include, but are not limited to, any plant product or raw hemp material that is marketed to consumers as hemp cigarettes, hemp cigars, hemp joints, hemp buds, hemp flowers, hemp leaves, ground hemp flowers, or any variation of these terms to include any product that contains a cannabinoid, whether psychoactive or not,” the new law says.
Hemp business operators say the smokable flowers are their number one seller.
“Once this is gone, that’s about 75% of my sales will be wiped out,” Troy Watts, who works in the Green Room store in Montgomery, told al.com on Thursday.
In addition to the smokable products, one other category is specifically excluded from the definition of consumable hemp products in the bill and therefore illegal to sell or possess starting July 1.
“Any product that contains psychoactive cannabinoids that are created by a chemical synthesis, modification, or chemical conversion from another cannabinoid, utilizing non-cannabis materials,” the bill says, and adds some exceptions to that.
AL.com will try to get more information on what products that exclusion would ban effective July 1.
HB445 will tax, regulate, and restrict the sales of gummies, drinks, and other consumable products containing the chemical THC that is derived from hemp, a form of cannabis. THC is the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana.
The sponsor of the bill, Rep. Andy Whitt, R-Harvest, said it is a compromise measure that will provide needed regulations for products that are widely available in specialty shops selling products containing THC and CBD derived from hemp, as well as in convenience stores and online.
Business owners and advocates said they were not opposed to regulation but said the bill was an overreach that would deprive adult customers of products they depend on to relieve pain, anxiety, sleeplessness and other problems.
The warning was for Calhoun, Etowah and St. Clair counties.
“The storms which prompted the warning have weakened below severe limits, and no longer pose an immediate threat to life or property. Therefore, the warning will be allowed to expire,” states the National Weather Service.
Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations
Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.
To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, keep these recommendations in mind:
Lightning safety plan:
When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.
Indoors safety measures:
Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.
Wait for the all-clear:
After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.
When indoor shelter isn’t available:
If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.
In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.
Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain
Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:
Beware of swollen waterways:
During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.
Maintain safe driving distances:
Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.
Slow down and drive with care:
If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
Visibility matters:
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.
Mind your windshield wipers:
Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
Preparing for impending lightning strikes: Expert safety recommendations
Each year, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, with the majority of these electrifying events occurring during the summer months. Unfortunately, lightning is responsible for claiming the lives of approximately 20 people annually, as reported by the weather service. The threat of lightning becomes more pronounced as thunderstorms draw nearer, peaking when the storm is directly overhead and gradually waning as it moves away.
To ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, keep these recommendations in mind:
Lightning safety plan:
When venturing outdoors, it’s crucial to have a lightning safety plan in place.
Stay vigilant by monitoring the sky for ominous signs and listening for the telltale sound of thunder. If thunder is audible, it’s a clear indication of nearby lightning.
Seek shelter promptly in a safe location, preferably indoors.
Indoors safety measures:
Once you’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
Lightning can follow conductive pathways, and these precautions reduce the risk of electrical surges.
Wait for the all-clear:
After the last lightning strike or thunderclap, wait at least 30 minutes before resuming outdoor activities.
Lightning can strike even when a storm has seemingly passed, so exercise caution.
When indoor shelter isn’t available:
If you find yourself outdoors without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, which expose you to greater lightning risk.
Steer clear of tall, isolated trees and other prominent objects. In wooded areas, stay close to lower stands of trees.
If you’re in a group, ensure that individuals are spaced out to prevent lightning current from transferring between people.
Camping in an open setting during a thunderstorm is strongly discouraged. If you have no alternative, set up camp in a valley, ravine, or other low-lying areas. It’s crucial to note that a tent provides no protection against lightning.
Do not approach water bodies, wet objects, or metal items. Although water and metal do not attract lightning, they conduct electricity effectively and can pose significant risks.
In summary, when facing the threat of lightning, vigilance and preparedness are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the chances of lightning-related accidents and prioritize your safety.
Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain
Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:
Beware of swollen waterways:
During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.
Maintain safe driving distances:
Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.
Slow down and drive with care:
If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
Visibility matters:
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.
Mind your windshield wipers:
Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.