Alabama News

Hot summer days mean staying hydrated is more important than ever, which is why Yeti just launched a new 1-gallon Rambler Jug, perfect for keeping cold water on hand all day long.

The Yeti Rambler One Gallon Jug is perfect for construction workers, campers, athletes, coaches, road trippers and anyone who spends long hours outdoors in the heat. Whether you’re on a job site, at a tournament or exploring the backcountry, this ultra-durable jug keeps water ice-cold all day thanks to its double-wall vacuum insulation.

The Rambler One Gallon Jug is available in the new limited edition Black Forest Green along with the core colors red, black, navy and stainless. Its smaller predecessor, the half-gallon jug, is also available in these same colors.

RELATED: Yeti’s new Cherry Blossom Roadie cooler was made for hot girl summer

According to Yeti, the new Rambler One Gallon Jug is 100 percent leakproof and features a Glugger-Not™ Vent Wedge for smoother pours along with a hands-free MagCap. It also comes with a convenient carrying handle and non-slip bottom. While it is dishwasher safe, it is recommended to not use the Rambler Jug for carbonated beverages or food storage.

“The hydration station that keeps the water ice-cold or fill it with enough coffee to keep the whole crew caffeinated. The 100% leakproof, Rambler One Gallon Jug is designed with double-wall vacuum insulation to seal in the temp. The MagDock Chug Cap locks in every drop and the Glugger-Not Vent makes it easy to sip and smooth to pour,” Yeti states.

Those interested can checkout the full listing on Yeti’s website here.

The suspect in a deadly domestic shooting in western Jefferson County was taken into custody U.S. Border Patrol as he tried to flee into Mexico.

Luis Rey Guerro Martinez, 35, is charged with capital murder in the Sunday shooting death of 33-year-old Gumero Olvera Castro. The two were brothers-in-law, said sheriff’s spokesman Henry Irby.

Castro was killed shortly before 2:30 a.m. Sunday in the 800 block of Willow Bend Lane in the Bessemer area.

Deputies and Concord Fire and Responded to the scene, where Castro was pronounced dead at 2:47 a.m.

An argument preceded the deadly shooting.

Irby said Martinez was taken into custody at 9:35 a.m. Monday.

It was not immediately clear why the charge is a capital crime.

Sheriff’s detectives are working with Border Patrol and the Kennedy County Sheriff’s Office in Texas to return Martinez to Alabama as soon as possible.

Anyone with additional information is asked to call sheriff’s investigators at 205-325-1450 or Crime Stoppers at 205-254-7777.

Rolla casino has burst onto the sweepstakes and social gaming scene. I have combed through the site to see what it has to offer after signing up through our Rolla promo code link. Find out whether or not Rolla can compete with the country’s best sweepstakes casinos.

Rolla casino sign-up bonus

The Rolla Casino promo code is presented in a unique way, but it’s very advantageous for new users.

Sign up for a new account to take part in the first seven days welcome pack with no purchase necessary. Each day, for seven days, you will be able to claim 250,000 Gold Coins and 1 free Sweeps Coin for a total of 1.75 million Gold Coins and 7 free Sweeps Coins.

Once new players create an account, Rolla casino is offering a 200% first-purchase bonus for one hour. For $9.99, new players can get an additional 1.5 million Gold Coins and 30 free Sweeps Coins.

Funding your bankroll with a quarter million Gold Coins every day over the course of seven days is a very high value sign-up bonus courtesy of Rolla casino.

Rolla vs. Real Prize vs. Pulsz

Rolla isn’t the only sweeps casino that offers new players with rewards. In fact, all of the best sweepstakes casinos dish out rewards to their new players.

Let’s see how the Rolla Casino promo code compares to some other relevant offers:

Real Prize hands out 100,000 Gold Coins and 2 free Sweeps Coins to their new players at sign up. In addition to that, new users can claim up to 625,000 GC, 125 SC and 1,250 VIP points in a first purchase bonus with our Real Prize promo code.

Pulsz Casino, meanwhile, offers a modest 5,000 Gold Coins and 2.3 free Sweeps Coins after registration. It also provides a first purchase offer with our Pulsz promo code: 400,000 GC and 40 free SC for $19.99.

Rolla doesn’t only offer 250,000 GC and 1 free SC each day for seven days. New users are able to take advantage of its first-purchase welcome pack that comes with 1.5 million GC as well as 30 free SC for $9.99 rather than the standard $29.99. This part of the bonus is available during a new player’s first hour after registration.

With all things considered, it is the Rolla Casino promo code welcome offer that stands above the competition. The fact that new players can get up to 1.75 million Gold Coins and 7 free Sweeps Coins without having to make a purchase makes this a top tier offer.

No promo code is needed if you use our Rolla promo code link.

How do you get Sweeps Coins at Rolla Casino?

It’s important to know Sweeps Coins can never be purchased directly at Rolla. Instead, they are awarded in promotions and given as a free add-on in Gold Coins purchases.

Is Rolla a no deposit casino?

Yes, Rolla casino is a free-to-play social casino operator. This means you will never be required to make a purchase to play at Rolla. A player can use Gold Coins to play all of the games across Rolla casino without charge for entertainment purposes only.

Gold Coins can be purchased if you choose to do so, but they can be obtained daily via promotional offers. Gold Coins hold no monetary value, and they can never be redeemed.

Can I redeem Sweepstakes Coins for cash at Rolla Casino?

Absolutely, you can redeem Sweeps Coins for money at Rolla Casino. Each Sweeps Coin holds a monetary value of $1, and you must have at least 50 Sweeps Coins in order to make a redemption.

Rolla bonuses for existing users

The Rolla casino welcome bonus offer really stands out, and so do its promotions for returning players. Below, you will find the available offers for all existing users:

Rolla casino daily prize drop: Wake Up and Win

The Rolla Casino daily prize drop is known as Wake Up and Win. It gives all players a shot at a 10,000 Gold Coins prize drop. This promo runs each day from 3 a.m.-midday PST.

Play games during this timeframe, and once it ends, 10 winners will be selected for an equal share of the 10 million Gold Coins prize drop.

Reel Quests

Each day, a new Reel Quest mission becomes available. Your job is to complete the given task(s) during the mission period in order to claim your reward.

Reel Quest rewards come in the form of Sweeps Coins, so play the participating game in SC mode to qualify.

Rock N’ Rolla 2K Daily Race

All players can take part in the Rock N’ Rolla 2K Daily Race against the other players. By playing your favorite games, players can climb the leaderboard for a chance at sharing a prize pool containing 2,000 Sweeps Coins.

Weekly Rollback

Once a week, Rolla casino rolls it back by looking at your play from the past seven days. If you happen to have played through any eligible Sweeps Coins over that span, you’ll receive a Rollback on those lost coins.

Superstore Coin Packs

Rolla has what’s known as a Superstore, which features Coin Packs that contain extra coins, including up to 5% extra free Sweeps Coins. The Superstore isn’t open at all times. So, you need to take advantage of it when it is available.

Social media giveaways

Rolla casino is active on Facebook and Instagram, where it hosts social competitions, giveaways and tournaments. You can follow Rolla on their socials to win a share of exclusive prizes.

Rolla Casino mail-in bonus

Players can request free SC Coins by getting a unique one-time request code at the Rolla website and sending a standard postcard or a single piece of plain, unlined white paper inside an individually stamped #10 envelope Rolla.

Players must adhere to all of these requirements:

• Handwrite the envelope and all contents in all caps and only black ink.
• On the front of the envelope, write your return address and the exact words “Request for SC Credits”*
• On one side of the SC Coins Request Card, write:
  • Full name exactly as shown on government issued ID
  • The email address associated with your Rolla customer account
  • The residential address associated with your Rolla customer account
  • The 11 digit unique one-time request code that you generated on Rolla’s website.
  • The statement exactly as laid out here: “I wish to receive free SC coins in order to participate in the SC Game promotions offered by Rolla. In submitting this written request, I confirm that I have read, understood and agree to be bound by the Terms and Conditions and SC Game Rules as set out on the Rolla website”

Send requests to: MW SERVICES LIMITED, PO BOX #8205, MANCHESTER, NH 03108

Rolla sweepstakes casino refer-a-friend bonus

You can earn up to 100 Sweeps Coins for referring a friend to Rolla. Here’s how it works:

• Send a friend your unique referral link;
• Have them sign up and verify their new account;
• Earn 25 SC if your referred friend purchases at least $100 worth of Gold Coins;
• Earn an additional 75 SC if your referred friend purchases at least $1,500 worth of Gold Coins.

Know there is no limit to how many times you can benefit from the referral program at Rolla sweepstakes casino.

High Rolla VIP Program

The High Rolla VIP Program grants you access to exclusive perks and rewards. Beginning at Rookie Status, your activity on the site over your initial 30 days will be used to calculate your VIP level.

Factors that contribute to your VIP level include playing the more than 1,600 slot games, being active on the Rolla Casino social media pages, engaging with promotions and more. Rolla Rewards will increase with each tier you reach, ending with the invite-only Rolla Royale tier.

Rolla Casino banking options

When it comes to sifting through the ins and outs of an online sweepstakes casino, the banking category weighs heavily. At Rolla, you can make Gold Coins purchases and redeem Sweeps Coins.

Below, you will find all of the pertinent banking information needed to make transactions at Rolla Casino:

Purchase options from Rolla Sweeps Casino

Redemption methods at Rolla Casino

Rolla Casino offers a plethora of methods for you to make purchases and redemptions, including more niche options such as Diners Club, JCB and Union Pay. Moreover, offering Apple Pay and Google Pay is a really nice feature.

Another aspect I like about the banking experience at Rolla is the 50 Sweeps Coins minimum redemption limit. Many competitors make you accumulate 100 Sweeps Coins in order to redeem them.

Expert tip: Initial prize redemptions will take 1-5 business days, but subsequent redemptions will process within 72 hours.

Available games at Rolla casino

Despite being a new online social casino, Rolla already boasts a game library spanning north of 1,600 different options. I will say, though, it entirely consists of slots, as there are no table games or live dealer options at the moment.

You will find, however, an array of slot titles from over two dozen different software developers, including:

• Pragmatic Play
• NetEnt
• Habanero
• Red Tiger
• Big Time Gaming
• BGaming
• 3 Oaks

The variety of slots seem endless at Rolla. Categories include Jackpots, Hold and Spins, Hold and Wins, Megaways and, of course, classic slots.

Needless to say, if you are an avid slot player, then Rolla casino covers all of your needs. A cool feature that is rather unique is Rolla’s Random Game icon, which will pick a slot for you to play randomly.

Popular games at Rolla sweepstakes casino

The table below displays key information pertaining to some of the most popular slot games available at Rolla:

Rolla casino user experience

Rolla is aiming to be a heavyweight within the industry, and its overall user experience speaks to that. The online social casino feels like a longstanding brand, despite being such a new entity.

For starters, the actual gameplay is top-notch. From my personal gaming, I didn’t experience any lagging or slow loading speeds while playing at home on my Wi-Fi. Moreover, finding your favorite games is easy as you can search by software provider and even by the game’s actual title using the search bar.

In addition to that, the UX is a bit confusing at first, but it’s phenomenal once you get used to it. I would estimate it took me roughly five minutes before I felt very comfortable navigating throughout the site.

Of course, aspects such as the very rewarding promotional offers only add to the great user experience at Rolla. The only thing missing is a dedicated mobile app, but the site is optimally designed for mobile browsers, too.

Another cool feature Rolla casino offers is its community chat, where you can interact with other players. It is something not seen at all online sweeps casinos.

Customer support at Rolla

Customer support is available 24/7 at Rolla casino, and it’s available in two ways:

• Email: [email protected]
• Live chat: 24/7

When I tested the live chat function, I received an auto-generated answer instantly greeting me, which was then immediately followed by an answer to my inquiry. Overall, I found the live chat to be very efficient and helpful.

As for the email support, I again tested it firsthand, and Rolla passed with flying colors once more. An agent responded in what seemed like no time with a detailed answer to my question.

Legal status and info of Rolla Casino

Anyone over the age of 18 is able to access Rolla Casino unless they are located in one of the following six states:

• Connecticut
• Idaho
• Louisiana
• Michigan
• Montana
• New York
• Nevada
• Washington

Being available in 42 of the 50 states, Rolla is one of the most widely accessible online social casinos in the US. You can also rest assured Rolla casino is a legitimate operator.

The site utilizes random number generators (RNGs) to ensure fair gaming, and its employs Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements to verify user accounts.

Finally, Rolla uses SSL encryption technology to keep all of your personal data secure.

Rolla sweeps casino 3 main takeaways

Many features really caught my eye when examining all Rolla casino has to offer, but these three aspects stood out:

• A standout welcome package: I have praised the Rolla Casino promo code offer throughout this page, and for good reason. The seven-day welcome pack that totals 1.75 million Gold Coins and 7 free Sweeps Coins towers over the sign up offers of most competitors. On top of that, new users can purchase 1.5 million GC and 30 free SC for just $9.99 instead of the standard $29.99.
• Lots to like about the banking experience: Another glaring feature of Rolla is the lineup of banking options that can be used to make purchases and redemptions. Having the ability to make transactions via major debit cards, Skrill, online banking and numerous other methods make for a seamless experience. The 50 Sweeps Coins minimum redemption limit is also a nice feature.
• Over 1,000 slots from the top providers: The game library that spans more than 1,600 slot titles is impressive, especially for an operator that is so new. Not only that, but the slots are powered by nearly 30 of the industry’s best and brightest software providers.

Pros and cons of Rolla casino

Pros:

• Over 1,600 slot games
• 24/7 customer support
• Incredible promotional offerings
• Long list of banking methods

Cons:

• No table or live-dealer games
• Interface can be a little confusing

Rolla promo code FAQ

Is Rolla casino legit?

Yes, Rolla is a legitimate online sweepstakes casino operator. The sweepstakes, promotions and prizes across Rolla Casino are operated by the reputable MW SERVICES LIMITED.

In which states does Rolla operate?

Rolla Casino is currently operating in every state except the following: Connecticut, Idaho, Louisiana, Michigan, Montana, New York, Nevada and Washington.

Does Rolla pay out real money?

Yes, Rolla casino pays out real money. If you rack up 50 or more Sweeps Coins, you can redeem them for cash via bank transfer and/or Skrill. You also can redeem them for a gift card using Prizeout.

How long does it take Rolla to pay winnings?

Initial prize redemptions at Rolla casino take anywhere from one to five business days, but all subsequent redemptions will process within 72 business hours.

Who owns Rolla Casino?

Rolla Casino is owned by MW SERVICES LIMITED, a company that operates out of Gibraltar and also owns WOW Vegas social casino.

On Monday at 3:11 p.m. a flash flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service in effect until 6:15 p.m. for Mobile County.

“At 3:11 p.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 2 and 4 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly,” states the weather service. “Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.”

The warning is for West Hill and Wheelerville. Heavy rain rates of 2 to 4 inches per hour over poor drainage urban areas will likely result in rather quick runoff and flash flooding. Use extreme caution driving around West Mobile.

The weather service adds, “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Your guide to weather alerts: advisories, watches, and warnings

• Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

• Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

• Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level necessitating a warning. Nonetheless, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Keeping safe during floods: Expert advice from the weather service

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Move to higher ground:

If you’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.

Adhere to evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Swift evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

Stay away from floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters, even if they appear shallow. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet.

Seek higher ground when trapped:

In the event you become trapped by moving water, make your way to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During heavy rainfall, the risk of flooding is heightened, especially in low-lying and flood-prone regions. Always remember never to drive through water on the road, no matter how shallow it appears. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most vehicles. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines 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 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:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

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:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

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 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:

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:

• 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.
• 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.

Despite the backing of the state’s top law enforcement official, the controversial chair of the Alabama parole board will not keep her seat.

Gov. Kay Ivey on Monday announced she would replace Leigh Gwathney, the most reliable “no” vote on the board, with a deputy from north Alabama.

On Monday, Ivey announced Hal Nash, the chief corrections deputy for Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, would take over Gwathney’s seat on the three-member board.

The governor wanted a “tough-on-crime, fair and pro-law enforcement candidate with leadership experience” to ensure public safety, according to a press release from Ivey’s office.

“Hal Nash is well-equipped to maintain the Board’s effectiveness in performing that task,” said Ivey. “He has a law enforcement perspective, and he has assured me he will approach each decision fairly and with that top goal in mind, which is to keep the people of Alabama safe.”

The announcement came via email after Gwathney’s seat expired on June 30. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshallpublicly supported Gwathney, a controversial figure on the three-member board, and had asked the governor to reappoint her despite “unprecedented and unwarranted criticism by the liberal media.”

Gwathney was known for being the most frequent ‘no’ vote on the board. She had been the focus for questions from both sides of the political aisle about why Alabama’s parole rate dropped so low in the past few years, and why the board was only letting out a fraction of people that their own guidelines recommended for release.

Ivey thanked Gwathney in her Monday announcement. “I am grateful to outgoing Chair Leigh Gwathney, who has stood firm for public safety. Leigh was an important part of our reform of Pardons and Paroles for the better, and I commend her for serving at the helm and helping make a safer Alabama.”

Gwathney is a former assistant attorney general and former prosecutor for Jefferson County. She’s been under fire for historic low parole rates.

AL.com spent 2024 delving into Alabama’s broken parole system, a system that had all but stopped releasing eligible prisoners in 2023. That year, the parole rate fell to just 8% – despite the parole board’s own criteria showing about 80% of the eligible inmates should be let out. The chairperson even denied parole to a quadriplegic inmate who couldn’t speak.

She fought to keep behind bars a man who stole a nail gun from a Lowe’s store in south Alabama, and an elderly, dying maneven though the victim’s mother had forgiven him for the accidental shooting death of her child.

As the reporting continued, the broken system began to change. Criticisms and concerns poured in from Republicans and Democrats alike.

Lawmakers held hearings and demanded answers. They said reporting increased public scrutiny on an issue lawmakers were already tracking. “This sort of accountability has changed things,” Rep. Chris England, D-Tuscaloosa, said last summer.

The board ended 2024 with a 20% grant rate and is on track for a 21% grant rate this year.

Nash’s appointment is effective immediately.

“This is not a position to be taken lightly,” Nash said in a statement released by the governor’s office, adding he was humbled by the appointment. “While remembering that people can choose to change for the better, this task will require weighing the safety of all the citizens of Alabama first. I pray for the wisdom to recognize both as I strive to serve the very best I can.”

Who else was on the short list of nominations remains a mystery. State law requires the lieutenant governor, the speaker of the Alabama House of Representatives, and the Senate pro tem leader to submit a list of five nominations for the seat to the governor’s desk. Then, Ivey had to choose her pick from that list within 10 days.

According to the governor’s press release, Nash has been with the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office for the last five years. He formerly served as the chairman of the Chattanooga/Hamilton County Air Pollution Control Board and the Jackson County Hospital Authority. In his law enforcement career, Nash has worked as an investigator, a narcotics agent, and in other roles. He also worked for five years with the U.S. Marshal Service Fugitive Task Force’s Huntsville office.

Cam Ward, the director of the Alabama Bureau of Pardons and Paroles, released a statement after the announcement, calling Nash’s appointment “a fine choice.”

“I know with Mr. Nash’s background as Chief Corrections Deputy at the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and his work with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office that he will represent our law enforcement community well.”

He said that while the bureau functions separately from the board, the two “enjoy cooperation with its members and work to promote the safety of our state’s citizens while providing meaningful paths to reentry into society for formerly incarcerated Alabamians.” The bureau supervises the 45,000 people on probation and parole across the state and isn’t responsible for parole decisions.

“We appreciate former Chairman Leigh Gwathney’s service to our state and her commitment to answering the call to serve the state of Alabama in various capacities for more than two decades,” Ward said.

At 3 p.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service released a flood advisory in effect until 6 p.m. for Mobile County.

The weather service adds, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.”

“Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas,” describes the weather service. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Understanding the differences between advisories, watches, and warnings

• Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it’s crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.

• Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

• Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level necessitating a warning. Nonetheless, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Weathering the storm: Flood safety guidelines from the weather service

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Move to higher ground:

If you reside in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is relocating to higher ground.

Follow evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, promptly comply. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time allows, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Evacuate promptly for safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

Refrain from walking in floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek high ground if trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the weather service. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

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 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:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

Slow down and stay cautious:

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.

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:

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.

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.

The Southern Poverty Law Center’s Action Fund has endorsed state Rep. Barbara Drummond in the Mobile mayoral race

The SPLC Action Fund, in a news release Tuesday, endorsed the Mobile Democrat in her contest for mayor. She is competing against former Republican politicians in ex-Mobile County District Judge Spiro Cheriogotis and Mobile County Commissioner Connie Hudson. Also in the race is former Mobile Police Chief Paul Prine.

The municipal election, which is non-partisan, is Aug. 26. A runoff election between the top two finishers will be needed if none of the candidates makes more than 50% of the vote, and that is scheduled for Sept. 23.

It’s the lone endorsement from the SPLC Action Fund, so far, in an Alabama race this year. The only other endorsement from the group is for Dr. Alicia Jackson in a Public Service Commission race in Georgia.

The SPLC Action Fund, which has made endorsements before in local school board contests, said that Drummond will “prioritize opportunity, safety, and equity for all while also growing Mobile’s economy, strengthening access to health care, and investing in violence prevention responses.”

The news release cites Drummond’s work in the Alabama Legislature, crediting her for helping to secure $11.4 million in new state funding for Mobile County Public Schools, co-sponsoring the Alabama Literacy Act in 2019, and securing $15 million for the construction of the new terminal for the Mobile International Airport.

The SPLC Action Fund, which makes endorsements in political contests in the Southeast, says it seeks to back candidates for local offices who are committed to “dismantling white supremacy, strengthening intersectional movements and advancing human rights of all people.”

“Delivering results for the people of Mobile requires more than just a vision; leaders need experience working in communities to understand which policies can make the biggest impact on residents’ lives,” said Madison Hollon, program manager of political campaigns with the SPLC Action Fund.

“As a lifelong Mobilian who has worked in public service for decades, Barbara Drummond understands how to navigate government to ensure her constituents get the resources that they need to thrive,” Hollon said.

The SPLC Action Fund’s endorsement is the latest in left-leaning groups to back the state lawmaker’s bid for the mayoral seat. She has also been endorsed by former U.S. Sen. Doug Jones, and received the support from two former candidates – Jermaine Burrell and Lawrence Battiste. She has also received financial support from the Alabama Works political action committee, which backs Alabama Democratic politicians.

Drummond, the lone Black candidate in the race for mayor in a city that has a slight Black majority, has said her candidacy transcends political polarization.

Her latest campaign filings indicate support from political action committees also aligned to industry including the FGA and BIZ PACs and the Alabama Realtors. She also received funding last month from the Pride II PAC, which has backed Republican candidates including – more recently – Chris Beeker and Jeremy Oden on the Alabama Public Services Commission.

Other candidates in the mayoral race have secured endorsements within the past two months. Cheriogotis is endorsed by outgoing three-term Mayor Sandy Stimpson, while Hudson has endorsement of the Retired Firefighters Association of Mobile and former Sheriff Sam Cochran, among others.

Prine has criticized the endorsements, saying they are mostly agenda-driven by political groups or politicians.

A Houston pediatrician and a former city official were condemned for their vitriolic social media comments on the Texas flooding that killed at least 89 people over the weekend, causing the doctor to lose her job and Houston’s mayor saying he won’t reappoint the official.

Dr. Christina B. Propst of Blue Fish Pediatrics in Houston faced backlash for her since-deleted Facebook post.

“May all visitors, children, non-MAGA voters and pets be safe and dry,” the original post read, according to Mediaite, which first reported on Propst’s comments.

“Kerr County MAGA voted to gut FEMA. They deny climate change. May they get what they voted for. Bless their hearts.”

Propst deleted her Facebook page, but Blue Fish Pediatrics still learned of her comments.

“This past weekend, we were made aware of a social media comment from one of our physicians. The individual is no longer employed by Blue Fish Pediatrics,” the practice posted to its Facebook page.

The devastation along the Guadalupe River, outside of San Antonio, has drawn a massive search effort as officials face questions over their preparedness and the speed of their initial actions, the Associated Press reported.

Propst was not the only person taken to task over social media posts on the flooding.

Sade Perkins, a former appointee to Houston’s Food Insecurity Board, posted videos to TikTok criticizing the camp that lost 27 young campers and staff in the flood.

“I know I’m going to get cancelled for this, but Camp Mystic is a white-only girls’ Christian camp. They don’t even have a token Asian. They don’t have a token Black person. It’s an all-white, white-only conservative Christian camp,” Perkins said, according to the New York Post.

“If you ain’t white you ain’t right, you ain’t gettin’ in, you ain’t goin’. Period,” Perkins said.

She claimed the incident would not have the same media attention if the victims were minorities.

“If this were a group of Hispanic girls out there, this would not be getting this type of coverage that they’re getting, no one would give a f–k, and all these white people, the parents of these little girls would be saying things like ‘they need to be deported, they shouldn’t have been here in the first place’ and yada yada yada,” Perkins said.

She was appointed to the Food Insecurity Board in 2023 by then-Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner.

Perkins’ appointment ended in January.

Mayor John Whitmire said he would not reappoint Perkins, calling her video “deeply inappropriate comments,” according to the Post.

South Alabama on Monday added a football verbal commitment from Louisiana high school wide receiver Jarvis Washington.

The 6-foot-5, 195-pound Washington, from The Dunham School in Baton Rouge, is the Jaguars’ 19th commitment for the Class of 2026. He was an honorable mention all-state selection in 2024, when he totaled 52 receptions for 976 yards and 10 touchdowns while leading his team to a 14-1 record and a state runner-up finish.

Washington also has scholarship offers from McNeese, Nicholls, Southeastern Louisiana and Grambling State, among other schools. He made his announcement via social media on Monday:

Washington is the fifth wide receiver among South Alabama’s 2026 commitments, a group that also includes McDonogh 35 (New Orleans) standout Heij Jackson. Another Jaguars commitment from Louisiana, offensive lineman Sami Abdelhak, announced last week he was re-opening his recruitment.

The early signing period for the Class of 2026 begins on Dec. 2.

South Alabama 2026 recruiting class (19)

Xavious Anderson, LB, 6-1, 215, Hogansville, Ga./Callaway HS

Darius Burwell, SAF, 6-2, 185, Huntsville, Ala./Mae Jemison HS

Deon Callins, CB, 6-1, 180, Pinson, Ala./Clay-Chalkville HS

Lavonte Cole, RB, 5-11, 190, Thomasville, Ga./Thomasville HS

Trakarris Collier, CB, 6-1, 180, Semmes, Ala./Mary G. Montgomery HS

Tyray Darensburg, LB, 6-1, 215, Chalmette, La./Chalmette HS

Teryn Green, SAF, 6-1, 195, Flowood, Miss./Hartfield Academy

Heij Jackson, WR, 6-3, 190, New Orleans, La./McDonogh 35 HS

Taylor Jacobs Jr., QB, 6-1, 185, Tallahassee, Fla./Lincoln HS

Brody Jones, WR, 5-10, 163, Fairhope, Ala./St. Michael Catholic School

Zech Hall, SAF, 6-2, 195, Havana, Fla./Gadsden County HS

Khatori Marion, WR, 5-11, 180, Mobile, Ala./Baker HS

Caleb Metzner, DE, 6-2, 215, Mobile, Ala./Cottage Hill Christian HS

Noah Moss, RB, 6-1, 205, Fairhope, Ala./St. Michael Catholic HS

Aaden Shamburger, QB, 6-3, 180, Spanish Fort, Ala./Spanish Fort HS

Camen Upshaw, SAF, 6-0, 180, Tallahassee, Fla./John Paul II Catholic School

Jarvis Washington, WR, 6-5, 185, Baton Rouge, La./The Dunham School

Dominic White, WR, 6-1, 180, Adamsville, Ala./Minor HS

Caleb Wynn, RB, 5-11, 205, Oxford, Ala./Oxford HS