If you recently received a text from the Alabama DMV, don’t click on the link.
It’s a scam.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is warning people about a nationwide phishing scam that has recently targeted Alabamians with fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the “Alabama Department of Vehicles (DMV).”
“Scammers are trying to create a false sense of urgency by threatening you and your driving privileges,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor said in a release. “We urge all Alabamians to be cautious and remember that our Agency will never contact you this way.”
It’s demanding payment for non-existent traffic tickets.
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) announced Friday, June 6, that there is a nationwide phishing scam now targeting Alabama residents.Mark Heim
These messages threaten to suspend individuals’ driving privileges for 30 days and suspend vehicle registrations unless recipients click a malicious link or provide personal information.
Actually, there is no Alabama Department of Vehicles (DMV).
In Alabama, driver licensing services are administered by the ALEA’s Driver License Division. Vehicle registration is handled by the Alabama Department of Revenue (ADOR). Additionally, license plates issuance is handled through local county probate offices.
In addition, ALEA and its Driver License Division don’t send unsolicited text messages threatening prosecution and requesting personal information or payment.
What to watch for:
Text messages claiming to be from the “Alabama DMV”
Warnings about immediate license suspension or vehicle registration cancellation
Links prompting users to enter personal or financial information
Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter@Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.
A report was issued from the National Weather Service on Friday at 4:57 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 5:30 p.m. for St. Clair County.
Residents may experience wind gusts of up to 40 mph.
“At 4:57 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm near Vandiver, or near Leeds, 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 Pell City, Leeds, Moody, Odenville, Margaret, Argo, Riverside, Ragland, Bald Rock, Logan Martin Lake, Coosa Island, Harrisburg, Branchville, St. Clair County Airport, Wattsville, Chula Vista, Camp Winnataska and Cropwell.
The weather service states, “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.”
Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines
Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest 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.
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 a safe place to shelter, 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.
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 without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they 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 with a group, ensure individuals are spread 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, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.
Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain
When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:
Beware of rapid water flow:
In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.
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.
Reduce speed and drive cautiously:
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.
Prioritize visibility
Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.
Watch out for slippery roads:
The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture 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.
Shielding yourself from approaching lightning: Expert safety guidelines
Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest 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.
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 a safe place to shelter, 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.
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 without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they 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 with a group, ensure individuals are spread 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, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.
Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain
When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:
Beware of rapid water flow:
In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.
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.
Reduce speed and drive cautiously:
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.
Prioritize visibility
Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.
Watch out for slippery roads:
The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture 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.
“Thank you for loving me the way you did and always having my back no matter what,” Inegbedion wrote. “God blessed me when he made me your baby brother and for that I am eternally thankful. You are forever on my mind and in my heart. I love you!”
Khadiyah became a prominent fixture in seasons 3 and 4 of “Love and Hip Hop: Atlanta” due to her relationship with rapper Yung Joc.
Khadiyah was also an entrepreneur and owned several businesses, including a real estate investment firm and a consulting agency.
The National Weather Service issued a report at 4:28 p.m. on Friday for strong thunderstorms until 5 p.m. for Jefferson and Shelby counties.
Brace for pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) and wind gusts of up to 40 mph.
“At 4:28 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Fowler Lake, or near Chelsea, moving east at 25 mph,” according to the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”
Locations impacted by the alert include Birmingham, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Homewood, Mountain Brook, Irondale, Leeds, Moody, Chelsea, Indian Springs Village, Vincent, Harpersville, Westover, Shops of Grand River, Kingston, Oak Mountain State Park, Vandiver, Barber Motorsports Park, Greystone and Inverness.
The weather service states, “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
Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest 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.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.
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 without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they 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 with a group, ensure individuals are spread 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, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.
Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather
When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:
Beware of rapid water flow:
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.
Reduce speed and drive cautiously:
On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator 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
Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.
Watch out for slippery roads:
Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.
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 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
Lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, with the bulk of these electrical discharges occurring during the summer months. Tragically, lightning claims the lives of about 20 individuals annually, as reported by the weather service. The risk of lightning-related incidents escalates as thunderstorms draw near, reaching its peak when the storm directly looms overhead. However, it gradually recedes as the tempest 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.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.
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 without access to indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, take these steps to maximize your safety:
Avoid open fields, hilltops, or ridge crests, as they 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 with a group, ensure individuals are spread 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, preparedness and vigilance are your best allies. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of lightning-related incidents and prioritize your safety.
Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather
When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. Here’s your guide from the weather service to staying safe during downpours:
Beware of rapid water flow:
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.
Reduce speed and drive cautiously:
On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator 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
Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.
Watch out for slippery roads:
Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.
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 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.
A weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service on Friday at 4:29 p.m. for strong thunderstorms until 5 p.m. for Tuscaloosa County.
Wind gusts of up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (0.25 inches) are predicted.
“At 4:29 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm near Samantha, or 13 miles northeast of Gordo, moving east at 20 mph,” states the weather service. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible.”
Locations impacted by the alert include Samantha, Bankhead Lock And Dam, Lake Lurleen State Park, Binion Creek Landing, Lake Tuscaloosa, Moores Bridge, Windham Springs, Sexton Bend, Tierce Pattton Bridge, Lake Nicol, Wiley, Echola, Highway 69 Bridge and Lake Nicol Park.
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 ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, consider the following recommendations:
Lightning safety plan:
When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
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’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.
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 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 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.
Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall
When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:
Beware of rapid water flow:
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:
Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.
Slow down and drive with care:
On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
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:
Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.
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:
Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.
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.
By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.
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 ensure your safety during a thunderstorm, consider the following recommendations:
Lightning safety plan:
When venturing outdoors, it’s vital to establish a clear plan for seeking shelter in case of lightning.
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’re indoors, avoid using corded phones, electrical devices, plumbing fixtures, and stay away from windows and doors.
These precautions help reduce the risk of electrical surges, as lightning can follow conductive pathways.
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 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 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.
Mastering wet roads: Safety tips for heavy rainfall
When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:
Beware of rapid water flow:
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:
Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.
Slow down and drive with care:
On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
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:
Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.
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:
Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.
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.
By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.
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.
Immigrants working on construction worksites were detained by federal authorities in Montgomery Thursday, advocates reported.
At least five construction workers from a D.R. Horton home building site were detained by U.S. Customs and Enforcement agents.
“It is my understanding that they were looking for a single individual and they let everyone else go at first. And then after having interactions with some people, they followed these folks and detained them on the highway,” said Luis Eduardo Robledo, an organizer from Birmingham Migra Watch.
The group formed last month to allow volunteers to monitor and publicize immigrant detentions.
Robledo said the officers arrived at the work site at about 10 a.m. and detained about five workers several hours later after they drove away from the work site.
Robledo said he does not know where those workers are currently and he does not believe the agents had warrants for their detention.
“They say they’re looking for one person, and they end up taking many more,” said Robledo.
D.R. Horton and ICE did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the detentions Friday.
The detentions reflect an increase in immigration enforcement activity both in Alabama and nationwide as the Trump administration moves forward with its effort to carry out mass deportations.
As of June 1, 51,302 immigrants were in ICE detention nationwide, according to data shared by the Syracuse University’s TRAC project, numbers not seen since the end of the Obama administration. Of those currently detained, 44% have no known criminal records.
Robledo said his group, which has set up a tip line for volunteers and immigrants to report ICE activity, also heard of detentions at several other D.R. Horton work sites in Montgomery Thursday, although he did not personally verify those reports.
Kierston Russell, the twin sister of the Alabama quarterback, died Wednesday in Tuscaloosa.
“As a family we are absolutely overwhelmed with gratitude at the outpouring of thoughts, prayers and messages we have received from family, friends, the University of Alabama, Duncanville High School and people all across the country this week,” Moore wrote. “There is no way we can respond to them all but please know we see and feel all of your love and support. These are words a mother never imagines having to write about their child in a lifetime. I know I will never truly be whole again.
“Kierston, you were a true angel from God and the only thought that is providing me with any peace and strength in this moment is knowing that you are resting with him now. For 18 years, I have been a witness to your shining light on everyone you met and in everything you did. My love for you cannot be measured, it is infinite and it will always be a part of me. Thank you, God, for choosing me to be her mother, I will spend every day for the rest of my life honoring her legacy in everything I do.”
“The investigation is ongoing pursuant to the procedures mentioned above, and at this time appears to be non-criminal in nature,” a statement from captain Jack Kennedy read. “Therefore, at this time no other information will be released.”
The Tuscaloosa VCU handled the death investigation alongside the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences because Tuscaloosa County does not have an elected coroner, Kennedy wrote.
“If no evidence is found of a criminal act, then VCU works as a liaison between ADFS and the family until the death investigation is included,” Kennedy wrote. “Some examples of non-criminal death investigations are: natural or medical deaths, death from accidents, and suicides.
Keelon Russell is a freshman quarterback on the Alabama football roster who enrolled early this spring.
He posted a prayer to his Instagram story Thursday.
“Dear God, Thank you that every good and pleasant gift is from above,” Russell wrote.
“You are the source of every blessing in my life-my health, my work, my relationships, and the strength to face each day. Even my ability to work and create comes from You. I acknowledge that all I have is a gift from Your generous hand. As James 1:17 says, ‘Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.’ You are faithful, and I am grateful. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
If U.S. adults had to pick a side in the ongoing fight between President Donald Trump and Tesla CEO Elon Musk, they would not side with Trump.
They also would not side with the world’s richest man, according to a YouGov poll conducted Thursday, the day the fight erupted.
Asked who they would choose if they had to pick a side, 52% of respondents said they would neither choose Trump nor Musk.
However, the president had a more than 3-to-1 advantage against Musk among those who did pick a side.
The president was the pick of 28% of respondents while 8% chose Musk.
Another 11% said they were not sure who to pick.
The feud reached a fever pitch on Thursday when Musk, who vehemently opposes Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill,” claimed the president would not have been elected in 2024 had it not been for Musk’s nearly $300 million in donations benefitting Trump’s campaign.
Trump then threatened to sever Musk’s companies’ lucrative contracts with the government.
Musk accused Trump of being in the Epstein Files, the documents that allegedly detail notorious sex trafficker and sexual abuser Jeffrey Epstein’s crimes and associates.
A brother and sister have been charged in the ongoing investigation into the death of a man found slain when authorities responded to a fire at a Graysville house.
Jefferson County sheriff’s officials on Friday announced the arrests of Vincent Wade Yarbrough, 47, and Joanie Yarbrough, 44. Both are from Sumiton.
Vincent Yarbrough is charged with abuse of corpse and second-degree arson.
Joanie Yarbrough is charged with auto theft and hindering prosecution.
Authorities have not publicly identified the victim. Though court records list a victim’s name, Chief Deputy Coroner Bill Yates it could be weeks or months before the victim’s identity is confirmed.
Charging documents against Vincent Yarbrough state the victim’s body was set on fire.
Graysville and Adamsville firefighters were dispatched Sunday May 25, to a house in the 500 block of Seventh Avenue S.W. in Graysville on a report of a house fire.
The fire was reported about 9:30 p.m.
Sheriff’s spokesman Henry Irby said first responders arrived to find the house engulfed in flames.
Once the blaze was extinguished, a male was found inside. He was pronounced dead on the scene at 10:17 p.m.
Sheriff’s detectives responded to the house, along with the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
Authorities have not yet said how the victim was killed, but said his death was a homicide.
The Yarbroughs were taken into custody Friday by the U.S. Marshals and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office Neighborhood Enforcement Team.
The majority of online sweepstakes casinos offer a huge number of slot games from the top developers in the iGaming industry. After looking through hundreds of games, I was able to narrow down five of the best sweeps slots that pay real money this weekend.
Every slot has its own pros and cons. The ones featured here offers good return-to-player rates, exciting bonus features and is simple enough for even first-time players to quickly understand.
Here are the best sweeps slots that pay real money this weekend
Online sweepstakes casinos continue to grow more popular around the US every single month. With online real money casinos still limited to a small number of states, millions of Americans are flocking to sweeps casinos to play their favorite games legally from the comfort of their home.
The vast majority of online sweepstakes casinos offer hundreds of slot titles. Below, I highlight five of the best ones available to play this weekend.
Brick House Bonanza
A screenshot of the Brick House Bonanza slot game.Pragmatic Play
Pragmatic Play is considered by many online slots to be the top slot game developers in the country. One of its most popular new games is Brick House Bonanza, a five-reel online slot game launched in January of this year.
Brick House Bonanza features 243 paylines with an average RTP of 96.50%. It has a “Three Little Pigs” theme with symbols that include pigs, wolves, and various construction tools. The game looks incredibly slick with an entertaining soundtrack that helps to keep players engaged.
Players will find several unique features connected to this game. That includes free spins, wild symbols and a bonus wheel. Trigger the bonus wheel by landing three or more bonus wheel symbols. During this round, players can earn huge jackpots with a max payout of 10,000x your wager.
Island Desire
A screenshot of the Island Desire slot game.Betsoft
Island Desire is an exciting online slot game launched by Betsoft this past May. It’s now available to play at McLuck, one of the best sweepstakes casinos in the country. This is a five-reel slot game featuring 243 paylines and an average RTP of 96%.
As the name suggests, this game’s theme centers around a tropical island. It blends elements of classic slot games with symbols that include various fruits and the classic slot 7 symbol.
Many players love the variety of jackpots available. A total of six jackpots can be won playing this game, the largest of which can offer a payout of 5,000x your wager. Wild symbols, scatter symbols and a hold & win feature are also available.
Joker’s Spellbook
A screenshot of the Joker’s Spellbook slot game.Realistic Games
Another one of the best sweeps slots that pay real money this weekend is Joker’s Spellbook. This game features five reels, 10 paylines and an average RTP of 96.10%. It was launched by Realistic Games in early 2025 and is now one of the most popular slots available to play at Spree.
There is no shortage of joker-themed slot games being offered online. Joker’s Spellbook is among the best, offering players a huge number of fun features such as scatter symbols and a great free spins round.
Four jackpots can be earned at Joker’s Spellbook. Collect special tokens for the chance to spin the mystery jackpot wheel. Lucky players can earn the Grand jackpot that offers a payout of 1,000x your wager.
Ultimate Slot of America
A screenshot of the Ultimate Slot of America slot game.Hacksaw Gaming
WOW Vegas is one of the most comprehensive sweeps casinos in the country. It offers a huge number of games including slots, live dealer games and even arcade-style casino games. It specializes in high RTP slots and recently added Ultimate Slot of America to its game library.
This game was launched by Hacksaw Gaming in May. It is a five-reel slot game with 19 paylines and an average RTP of 94.34%. While this game’s RTP is slightly lower than some of the other sweeps slots featured on this page, it comes with enough bonus features to help players earn some huge payouts.
Unlike most slots, Ultimate Slot of America offers three different free spins rounds. The “Pursuit of Riches” free spins round is the best, as it guarantees players will earn 5 or more Liberty Games on each spin. Lucky players can earn a max payout of 10,000x their wager.
Starlight Princess
A screenshot of the Starlight Princess slot game.Pragmatic Play
Starlight Princess is another popular online slot game developed by Pragmatic Play. This game was launched in 2021, yet has remained one of the most beloved games at Crown Coins since this sweeps casino went live. This game is also one of the top real money slots offered by several world-class online casinos.
Players will find a six-reel slot featuring 20 paylines and an average RTP of 96.50%. It has a fun anime theme with a techno soundtrack that truly adds to the playing experience.
Starlight Princess has many bonus features that can help players earn large payouts. Landing four or more Princess scatter symbols to trigger this round. Players are automatically given 15 free spins with a possible max payout of 5,000x their wager.
